Author, inspirational speaker, and survivor of the Humbolt Broncos bus crash, Kaleb Dahlgren is coming to Owen Sound to speak to our local youth. Organized by the Optimist Club of Sydenham and District, and with the support of the Grey Bruce Branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Dahlgren will appear at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre on October 31, at 10:30am. He will deliver a message of resilience, and the importance of asking for help if struggling with mental health issues. Area mental health supports for youth will also be highlighted at the event. The material to be presented is best suited for age 12 and up.

Despite the challenges of organizing an event with the uncertainty and restrictions of the pandemic, members of the Optimist Club felt this message was needed now more than ever. Jackie Ralph, Supervisor, Youth Awareness & Education, CMHA Grey Bruce, confirmed the need for a focus on youth mental health and was eager to provide support. The Grey Bruce We CARE Project and Bruce Power have generously assisted with funding.

Tickets are $15 and available through the Attack Box Office, online or in person. Our local Coles bookstore will be selling Dahlgren’s book “Crossroads” at the event, and there will be a book signing afterwards. For more information about the event, contact the Optimist club at [email protected].

Participants over age 12 are required to provide proof of covid vaccine as per provincial requirements for indoor events, and those under age 12 are required to attend with a fully vaccinated adult. Full details regarding vaccine requirements can be at owensound.ca.