By Erin Knutson

The Canadian Mental Health Association Kootenays Branch (CMHA Kootenays) has launched the Push-Up Challenge, running from February 5 to 27 both locally and nationwide.

The event raises funds for programming and increases awareness of mental health and wellness.

“CMHA Kootenays offers services throughout the entire Kootenay region – we hope individuals from across the area will show their support for our branch by signing up individually or as a team,” said Director of Operations Kelsa Lefebvre.

The challenge began in 2017, created by four friends from Perth, Australia, to promote fitness, mental health awareness, and social connection. Since then, it has gained global traction and raised over $60 million for mental health.

“We encourage participants to take photos throughout the month and submit them so we can highlight their achievements and provide support. Registration is also open to our staff, and several employees are participating,” said Lefebvre of the Kootenays Branch.

Residents in the Kootenays and across Canada are invited to join the challenge, which sets a daily push-up target with rest days. The goal is to complete 2,000 push-ups in 23 days. The event is inclusive, allowing modifications for all skill levels and abilities.

“Although it is called The Push-Up Challenge, not everyone can do push-ups, so we encourage any form of physical activity. Contributors are participating through push-ups, rock climbing, walking, and swimming,” stated Lefebvre, highlighting CMHA Kootenays’ commitment to inclusivity.

Team building is a key goal of the fundraiser. Participants are encouraged to form groups in community settings, workplaces, sports clubs, and schools, fostering social connection and friendly competition toward a shared objective.

“The Push-Up Challenge is a fundraiser where anyone can donate to an individual or team. We encourage everyone across the country to participate and promote their mental health. For those able to fundraise or donate, that is the ultimate goal,” according to Lefebvre and the CMHA Kootenays team.

Since its 2024 launch in Canada, 120,000 Canadians have participated in the challenge, raising over $6 million for CMHA programming. CMHA offers a range of services and community programs supporting mental health and wellness, including resources for individuals with psychiatric disorders. Programs include mental health education, suicide prevention and awareness, youth and campus mental health services, peer support, addiction services, and housing supports.

According to event organizers, promoting systemic change and acceptance within communities is part of its mandate across 330 offices nationwide.

“Everyone is welcome to participate. The event is accessible to people of all abilities. We encourage participants to adapt exercises to their abilities or set smaller targets, such as 25%, 50%, or 75%.

“You can register as an individual, team, or community and set personal goals. Any physical activity is welcome. Registration is free, and participants can invite others to join, fundraise, or donate. A team consists of up to 10 individuals, while a community is a workplace or school with more than 10 participants,” said Lefebvre.

Locally, the Kootenays Branch aims to raise $25,000 for the region. As a non-profit charity, it relies on grants, fundraising, and donations to continue providing services to the community. “As a community-supportive association, we use these funds to support the mental health and well-being of those in need. By signing up, fundraising, donating, and improving their mental health through physical activity, the community can support this initiative,” said Lefebvre.

Organizers of The Push-Up Challenge emphasize the importance of starting conversations about mental health and reducing stigma. The event provides daily mental health facts and encourages participants to share information and fundraise in support of mental health initiatives.

For more information or to register, visit the official website of The Push-Up Challenge or the Canadian Mental Health Association.

CMHA Kootenays Branch – Mental Health for All

The Push-Up Challenge – Canada’s Largest Physical and Mental Fitness Event

Photos submitted

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