#Canada #mental health #Toronto #BMO #Kids Help Phone

BMO Walks for Good: A Community Driven Success

In an impressive display of unity and commitment, BMO's inaugural North American BMO Walks for Good campaign has successfully raised nearly $2.4 million CAD to support vital mental health organizations across Canada and the United States. This three-week campaign saw participation from approximately 13,000 BMO team members, along with friends, family, and community members who stepped out for a good cause during the month of May.

The funds garnered through this campaign are being directed to two leading mental health organizations: Kids Help Phone (KHP) in Canada, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in the U.S. Both organizations are known for their dedication to providing essential community services and support aimed at expanding inclusive access to mental health resources.

A Continued Commitment to Mental Health
BMO has been a partner with Kids Help Phone since its establishment in 1989 and has played a significant role in its mission to transform the youth mental health landscape in Canada. Over the years, BMO’s contributions, which exceed $21.4 million CAD, have bolstered various initiatives, especially the Feel Out Loud campaign launched in 2018 aimed at empowering Canadian youth.

Aaron Sanderson, Group Head and Executive Vice President at Kids Help Phone, expressed immense gratitude for BMO’s enduring support, stating, "For 36 years, Kids Help Phone has been a trusted space for any feeling or issue, big or small— empowering young people to feel out loud. BMO's continued commitment helps us reach even more youth across Canada with accessible mental health support."

BMO has also made strides in the U.S. by expanding its mental health initiatives through its partnership with NAMI. Since 2024, BMO employees have contributed over $320,000 USD to local NAMIWalk fundraising events across the country, further solidifying their commitment to this vital cause. Jessica Edwards, Chief Development Officer for NAMI National, remarked on the dedication seen through these efforts: "The dedication and generosity from Team BMO for our NAMIWalks has been inspiring, bringing us one step closer to our vision of Mental Health for All."

Strength in Community
The BMO Walks for Good campaign not only raises funds for mental health initiatives but also encourages crucial conversations about mental health issues. It aims to diminish the stigma surrounding mental health, fostering a sense of community and acceptance. Helen Seibel, Head of Employee and Community Giving at BMO, highlighted this unified effort: "We are inspired by another powerful demonstration of community, compassion, and commitment by Team BMO who continues to come together to raise awareness and funds for mental health."

With an extensive reach across North America, BMO has organized numerous walks, including the BMO Walk so Kids Can Talk that took place in 16 different communities in Canada, as well as large events in cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York City in support of NAMI.

Moreover, BMO's overall mission emphasizes nurturing communities through philanthropy and volunteerism. The bank directed over $108 million in 2024 to support community initiatives, which included over $101 million in philanthropic contributions to various charities and nonprofits. BMO employees volunteered over 54,000 hours in their communities and donated more than $39 million through employee-driven campaigns in a powerful show of collective responsibility and care.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the BMO Walks for Good is a significant step in the ongoing journey towards improving mental health support and resources. With the combined efforts of BMO team members, families, and community participants, this campaign continues to effect real change, ensuring that mental health support is accessible whenever and wherever it is needed. As the world grapples with mental health challenges, the importance of community solidarity in driving funding and awareness cannot be overstated.

For more information on the initiatives of BMO and its partners, please visit their respective websites.