Scotiabank employees participate in the CAMH Corporate Volunteer Program

Scotiabank forecasts growth – in a CAMH client garden

On a sunny August day, 22 corporate volunteers from Scotiabank came to CAMH to assist the Geriatric Mental Health program in beautifying the garden terrace outside of the unit at the Queen Street site.

The Scotiabank volunteers are to be credited for donating time and resources

The group, who work in the Scotiabank Strategic Support Group, received their orientation in the morning and then got down to investing their time and energy on the terrace. They weeded, cleaned, planted and even painted old benches.

“Not only did they volunteer their time they also provided the resources to purchase plants, flowers and painting supplies,” said Jim Davey, Corporate Volunteer Coordinator. “Most importantly, they had an opportunity to interact and work along side the clients and staff of the unit.”

Gabriella Golea, Administrative Director of the Geriatric Mental Health program provided a thorough and insightful tour of the unit for the volunteer gardeners.

“This was a really humbling experience. I was not aware of the extent of help being provided and the kinds of illnesses that CAMH treats. What I realized is that these individuals are like everyone else and what they need most of all from the general public is respect and understanding.”  - Scotiabank corporate volunteer

The amazing work done on the terrace is sure to pay dividends for staff and clients in the future. Following a wonderful lunch provided by the unit, Physician-in-Chief and Head Geriatric Mental Health Dr. Benoit Mulsant spoke to the group about the importance of mental health at every stage in life.

The Corporate Volunteer Program provided another great day for volunteers to spend with the CAMH clients and staff while helping to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness.

Two volunteers work diligently to restore beauty to an old bench.

The CAMH Corporate Volunteer program is about ”Creating partnerships to build healthy communities." If you would like more information about the program, please contact Jim_Davey@camh.net at ext. 6238.

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