|
 Centre for Addictionand Mental Health |
|
|
|
Media and Events
|
Joint George Brown College-CAMH Conference to explore links between youth violence and mental healthMEDIA ADVISORY – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE TORONTO (February 22, 2008) –Youth violence does not begin with violent incidents, but is a problem that grows over a lifetime. Inadequate housing, underemployment, lack of positive role models and community disorganization are some factors that contribute to youth violence, and sadly, are all too common in urban centres. As incidences of violence involving youth seem to be growing, community involvement and discussion to address these concerns is badly needed. To address these issues, and explore the possible links between youth violence and mental health, George Brown College’s Ninth Annual Mental Health Conference, in partnership with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), will bring together leading educators and public health officials to look past the headlines on gangs and guns and consider other sources of youth violence. WHAT: 9TH Annual George Brown Mental Health Conference in partnership with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). This year, public health officials and educators will be exploring the roots of youth violence and possible links to mental health. WHERE: George Brown College, Financial Services Building WHEN: Wednesday, February 27 WHO: The following youth panelists are available for interviews: LaToya Rodney – From multiple school expulsions, to joining a gang and going to jail, LaToya knows first-hand the dangerous path some youth may follow. Only after the shooting of two of her brothers did she see that she needed to make a change. A mother who now works on a career in music, she is a role model for kids who want to break the cycle of violence. Rahel Appiagyei – A proud member if the Jane and Finch community, Rahel has worked with neighbourhood organizations such as the Jane and Finch Boys and Girls Clubs and Conflict Mediation Services of Downsview. Rahel has earned numerous awards for her work in her community including recognition from Flare Magazine and CIBC. Natalie Crooks – With a passion for working with children and adolescents from strained socioeconomic families, Natalie has had the opportunity to work with several community agencies. Through her work, she has implemented youth programming in the areas of life skills, healthy sexuality and anti-racist education. Lekan Olawoye – Having grown up in the Jamestown community, Lekan has worked as a facilitator for Toronto Community Housing and currently coordinates the Rexdale Involve Youth Project. Lekan believes that he and other like-minded youth have the power make change if given the opportunity, and is committed to fighting the injustices that plague both Toronto and the larger Canadian system.
A complete list of panellists and presenters is available at www.georgebrown.ca/mental-health-conference.
About CAMH CAMH is a Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Collaborating Centre, and is fully affiliated with the University of Toronto. About George Brown College -30- For more information, please contact: Michael Torres
Paul Zanettos |
 Related Links |
|
Last updated: May 01, 2008 Published: Friday, July 01, 2011 6:40 AM ID#35604-N |