The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is a recognizable and reliable provincial organization where Albertans find compassionate support, responsible care and accessible resources. CMHA began its advocacy work in 1917 based on evident community needs. Families and individuals brought their desire for better mental health outcomes into an association, which today spans our country. This history is central to our work. For 99 years, we have operated as a registered charity within the not-for-profit sector. We work at the intersection of clinical and local mental health care. Our programs, projects and services developed to address the unique needs of individuals and communities. For more than 60 years in Alberta, CMHA has focused on community based services, recovery and support for Albertans impacted by mental illness. We stand with people living in the community as they achieve their wellness goals. Hundreds of CMHA staff and volunteers engage clients in activity and navigation within the complex matrix of mental health services. The CMHA is a provincial leader in mental health awareness and education, peer support, suicide prevention, help and distress lines, rural mental health service delivery, and in the 10-year plan to end homelessness. In a wide variety of approaches and venues, CMHA's evidence-based programs and resources build awareness and resiliency, and reduce stigma. Today our provincial office (CMHA Alberta Division), eight CMHA regional offices and the Centre for Suicide Prevention continue to focus on mentally healthy people in healthy communities. Our regional offices focus their efforts on local initiatives and meeting needs in their jurisdictions. CMHA Alberta Division represents CMHA on a provincial scope in Alberta. We focus on projects and initiatives that have the potential to benefit all Albertans.
