Tonight marked the first (of many to come) salon conversations thematically centered on connecting our youth and transforming the vast landscape of (me)ntal (health and (you)th at risk using the positive platform of education and prevention.

What is a salon and how does it differ from a traditional speaking engagement?  Salons have been around since the 1600s; which explores the art of public conversation.  An enhanced dialogue where brevity is the name of the game, and the flow of the event is not dictated by a regimented set of paramters, but by the direction of the audience based on personal passions, perspectives and opinions on the theme of the salon. It is meant to be interactive in an atmosphere of free flowing idea generation. The 3 speakers I selected, I believe deeply represent greatness in our community and are directly linked to our chosen audience demographic and theme of our salon –  ”liberated transparency.”

li.ber.at.ed – “the be set free; from opression; to achieve equality. Showing freedom from social conventions or traditional ideas.”

trans.par.ency – “in this context, openness, communication, disclosing all information, the sharing of resources without confines or boundaries.”

The goal of the evening –  start a dialogue with youth and passionate people with a proven track record in mental health, youth and breaking stimgatization. There is a movement going on right now and it is a movement to re frame mental “illness”, a movement that is quickly gaining momentum towards an unprecedented, revolution of youth standing up against stigma; which shone brightly here tonight.

In our audience was also Michael Schratter,  pioneer of the Ride Don’t Hide Campaign! having a superhero who cycled 40,000km and raised nearly $76,000 in your audience makes one a little hyper and nervous all at the same time. The guy is an icon and well, just simply rocks. (http://www.ridedonthide.com/)

Speaker One: Kristina Dixon -Canadian Mental Health Assocaiton(Vanc/Burnaby Branch)

First up was Kristina Dixon, Child and Youth Services Program Coorindator for CMHA. Working primarily with children and youth with anxiety she took us on a journey of new up and coming programs that are gaining results and much needed traction.

One program that perked my interest was PANDEMONIUM. Apart from the uber cool name, it’s a program that provides an afterschool recreation program for youth 13- 7 years old who have experienced anxiety. This group runs once a month and allows youth who have experienced anxiety an opportunity to participate in recreation in their community in a supportive and safe group. http://vancouver-burnaby.cmha.bc.ca/about-us

Speaker Two: Odd Squad Productions Society (Vancouver Police Department)

Early intervention, prevention and education are key! Using the innovation behind directing and producing award winning documentaries, Odd Squad’s goal has been to empower youth to make positive life choices and to design programs that honour and motivate youth. One of the key realizations and feedback receieved from our feedback artifact sheets was that “peer-to-peer” support groups are the largest generator of success rates amongest teens in prevention of drug use. OSP speaks to thousands of kids and youth per year, and when they encourage kids and youth to take the stage – that is when the real magic happens.

We watched a short video from OSP that showcased “Heather,’ a young 29 year old woman who really wanted a better life, but had fallen into the viscious cycle of crack and heroin addiction. The reality is, we are all human and we make mistakes. Heather, in a tearful moment, (where I felt myself choking back tears), starts to tell us that heroin rules her life, she wishes she were healthy, she wishes she could go back to school, she wishes for a better life. OSP’s trio of speakers (Cst. Toby Hinton, Cst. Mark Steinkampf and Cst. Dave Stevernding) hit home on Gangs, Guns, Drugs (say NO) and prevention! And I am not going to lie, I really, really want to be a police officer, the VPD are pioneers in the field of law enforcement and community assistance. http://www.oddsquad.com/

Speaker 3: Alana, Power To Be Adventure Therapy

The queen of the night, was most certainly Alana. Power to Be provides dynamic outdoor education programs and continues to fill the widening gaps in health, education and social service sectors for people facing significant life challenges. Alanna’s story on her hardships in school shone light on what it truly means to stand up against stigmatization and marginalization. And she would have none of it!

From a young age (now she’s in Grade 11), Alana always knew what she wanted to do – be a journalist or a lawyer, so that she support her community and to speak out and say there is no “they” there is only “us – as a whole.” We are all human beings, and should be treated with respect. This is one young girl, who I have no doubt, will not only live her dreams, but will have a massive following of inspired people in her footsteps. http://www.powertobe.ca/

The Deliberation:

Q ”what can we as mid adults (no longer youth, but not quite adult status yet) do to help engage others and support this platform?

A (Cst. Toby Hinton replies). “The best thing you can do is find the thing that you are passionate about, that one talent and then do it.” Using the OSP Hockey mentorship program as an example. Using health as a platform or vehicle towards empowerment has a proven track record. I of course added my 3.2 cents with RUN4ACAUSE and the importance of team dynamics as a building block for peer support and self confidence.

Q “what resources can youth use to help support teachers, parents and their peers, are there enough resources at school?”

A FACT: We know that the necessary resources only 1 in every 6 children or youth in Canada,  however there is hope. Aliya Dossa, a TEDxKids@BC Speaker and top notch power young adult says, “at our school we have the “be a buddy” where they pair students with other students who are struggling with signifcant life challenges and in Planning 10 classes, more and more “outside the tranditional box” speakers and concepts are being added yearly. My hope is that this becomes mainstream for high schools. We know the high schools that do not lack funding have a larger opportunity to speakers and projects, but I wonder about the schools that fall under the radar or become labeled as “at risk.” I would like to research this more.

Conclusion:Overall, the evening was very insightful, it spawned an organic flow of dialogue between guests and speakers and everyone participated in some capacity. Considering this was my first full spectrum salon, I think I pulled it off quite well. More importanly, the speaking organizations deserve a round of applause for their continued success and hard work in building the framework towards a more positive platform on (me)ntal (heal)th and (you)th at risk.

These salons are arranged every 2 months, each time with a specific focus and theme connecting youth the with change agents in our community. Each salon gives way to new ideas, empowerment and connections. Until next time…

Vancouver CARE Volunteer Action Network

Tel: 604 789 0203   e-mail: walkinhershoes@gmail.com

VANCOUVER– January 2^nd , 2011

WALK IN HER SHOES FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY

Vancouver’s RUN4ACAUSE Social Crusader Sarah Jamieson, Pledges to“Run 101km in Her Shoes” in support of CARE Canada and International Women’s Day Walk in Her Shoes Campaign!

VANCOUVER, January 2^nd , 2011 -To help break the cycle of poverty and in celebration of 101 years of International Women’s Day (IWD), Sarah Jamieson, a local social crusader, athlete and philanthropist will be supporting CARE Canada by “running’ a 3 month campaign, which kicks off on International Women’s Day March 8^th 2012  – May 20^th 2012.

Her goal is to raise $20,000.00 in support of CARE Canada’s key projects empowering women and girls, and to bring to light the importance behind girl’s education, and the impact girl’s play in their communities. Moreover, to showcase the potential WE, as a community have towards investing in the world’s most untapped resource – women. What will this campaign include: Between March and May, school relays, her RUN4ACAUSE Superhero Speaking Series, and a 101km run event on May 20^th.

International Women’s Day is a day of celebration, but it is also a day to remind us of the millions worldwide who continue to fight for justice, equality and peace In CARE’s six decades of experience, we have come to see how women’s well-being is the fuel that drives vibrant, healthy societies and cultivates opportunity and hope amongst their communities.

WALK IN HER SHOES AROUND THE WORLD:

In the poorest communities around the world, women and girls are often the ones tasked to collect water, firewood or other basic necessities of life. They walk on average 6 kilometres a day (approximately 8,000 steps) while carrying the equivalent of a suitcase. This leaves little time to attend school, access health services or earn money to support their families.

To help break the cycle of poverty and in celebration 101 years of International Women’s Day, I am challenging Vancouverites to join my Superhero Walk in her Shoes Vancouver:

Participate and Fundraise: Between March 2^nd      – May 20^th 2012

1) Get your School Involved: Become a Superhero, get a School WIHS Team Together, and choose a date between March 8^th – May 20^th. Contact Sarah Jamieson for details.

2) WIHS Superhero 101km May 20^th Event – Join Sarah on her WIHS Superhero 101km  event and Walk or Run a portion of Sarah’s 101km WIHS Superhero Challenge Event Route.

3) WIHS March 2^nd – March 8^th – Get your own group together and walk 6km (8,000 steps) for IWD.  Corporations and schools may choose to do a one-day walk, rather than all eight days.

BECOME A SPONSOR OR VOLUNTEER:

• Become a Sponsor:  Mile Markers and Community Sponsorships Available. Request our Sponsorship & media toolkit today.
• Become a Volunteer: May 20^th WIHS Superhero 101km event – Be part of a global action for young women and girls. Request a volunteer toolkit today.

Walk in Her Shoes is a unique opportunity to think globally,  get fit and have fun while making an important contribution to CARE’s projects that improve the lives of girls and women in poor countries. By providing vital access to education, clean water, food, health services or business skills, we can help them to reach their full potential.

WALK IN HER SHOES SUPERHERO 101KM  CHALLENGE:

Event Date: Participate on Sunday May 20^th 2012

Start Time: 0600hrs

Event Time Goal: Sarah Jamieson will walk/run 101km in under 15 hours

Start Location:Sutherland Secondary School, North   Vancouver, BC

Finish Location: Terry Fox Memorial, Downtown, BC

**Mile Markers every 6km, for those who want to join Sarah J on her 101km WIHS event.

PRE REGISTRATION NOW OPEN:

Taking part is easy. Pre- Registration is OPEN! Sign up Now: http://www.care.ca/wihs . Full registration opens in 2 weeks time. Get a head start and pre register today!

With your registration you receive a registration kit; including a pedometer to count your steps and a Walk in Her Shoes t-shirt, as well as access to training tips, team training and being part of the CARE community. Ask Sarah How!

SOCIAL CRUSADERS WIHS TEAM Registration: Coming soon….

For more information on CARE and our Walk In Her Shoes Global Campaign please visit: CARE Canada:  www.care.ca

She has the power to change her world. You have the power to help her do it. Take part in a movement to empower women and girls fight poverty!

NOTE:  This event and the “CARE  Volunteer Network” are organized by private individuals who do not work for or officially represent CARE Canada.

VISION:

To Spread Cheer, for All to Hear through sustainable, community driven holiday festivities that positively impact those in need in our community.

OUR GROWTH:

For the past 7 years I have rallied and rounded up some of the most amazing people (and elves) in my life, and they in turn have rounded up the most amazing people in their lives –this domino effect is endless and it’s what makes this operation a success. It’s now time for Operation Elf to take the next step, and that step is to sponsor those who need it most, who are in transition and working towards providing a life for themselves and their families.

OPERATION ELF 2011:

This year our goal is to impact more lives and bring awareness to programs and services dedicated to assisting youth, youth at risk and vulnerable population affected by poverty and marginalization.

More importantly, to showcase the impact we can make by encouraging others to give the gift of hope, opportunity and compassion. This year we will be supporting 2 great causes, through our baked goods and in kind contributions of gifts and donation.

CAUSE 1: VANCOUVER POLICE FOUNDTION Supporting Youth at Risk and Sport: “Adopt a Project”

PAL’s (Police Athletics Leagues) is a youth crime prevention initiative that uses athletic, recreational and educational programs as a tool to foster positive rapport and mutual trust between police officers and youths, as well as assist and encourage youths to become involved in community sports and activities. Sports encourage kids to enhance self-esteem and motivation and to promote the learning of successful interpersonal skills within a team. In BC thousands of children do not have the opportunity to play sports due to financial barriers.

Website:  PALS: http://vancouver.ca/police/community-policing/youth-outreach/police-athletic-league.html and VPF: www.vancouverpolicefoundation.org

CAUSE 2: HOPE IN SHADOWS: Supporting Homelessness and Low-Income Vendors

Hope in Shadows, which is a charitable organization creating positive social change for people and communities impacted by poverty and marginalization. Our projects empower, educate, and provide employment training to low income people in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and beyond. We encourage you to purchase their calendars and join us on December 24^th as our elves will be out and about from12pm – 4pm handing out baked goodies, wrapped up and ready to deliver to all the Hope in Shadows vendors. The Hope in Shadows calendars are sold on the streets ofVancouver by homeless and low-income vendors, and we wish to bring them a little extra of xmas eve.

Website: http://www.hopeinshadows.com/about-us

THE ELF CALL TO ACTION:  It’s Easy!

1. Join our Facebook Page and “SHARE” on your wall. (https://www.facebook.com/#!/events/140222116086652/)

2. Join us on December 24th 12pm – 4pm.

3. Become a VPF Member (a $100 donation goes towards the “Adopt a Project” for PALs AND you get to become a VPF member for the year. Includes; membership, tax receipt, invite to the AGM, and more). (pssst… I’m one and loving it! Play an active role in your community).

Our journey starts off at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Gardens on Carrall street. An amazing opportunity to see full scale the breath taking photos that are featured in the 2012 calendar, as well as an opportunity to learn about the evolution of the Hope in Shadows project, piloted by Pivot Legal Society.

GIVE THE GIFT OF THANKS:

In addition, our “Mobile ELF Team” will be making pit stops at  the Vancouver Fire Department Hall on Main and Hastings and the Vancouver Police Station, to say thank you for their efforts in 2011, and for all their post riot community service and assistance.

This holiday season we have a great opportunity to give and to remember the efforts made in 2011 towards a brighter, more progressive and better 2012.

Yours in Elf-ism!

Vancouver Police Department Patch

Last night Cst. Steve of the Vancouver Police Department, took us on a “tweet-a-long” during his evening shift to showcase a day in the life of a beat cop…”behind the blue line.”

Over the evolution of the evening it became clear to me, that the majority of ‘tweeters’ out there had very little idea of what constitutes “policing.” More over, that “tweeters” were unaware of the dedication and hard work police officers perform in our community. The VPD is integral to reporting statistics and interaction with mental health in all ofCanada.  This is no easy task.

In our society, it is much easier to judge, misread and place blame, and then go back to our comfortable lives, while our police stand at the front lines and take ownership of their personal responsibility to keep our secured public safe. Why, I ask, are we so quick to blame, and to point the finger? Sometimes I think we forget. We forget that the role of the VPD is to assist our community, and in doing so every constable gets to know the patrons, whether they have a mental illness or not, they know them by name, they know their habits, and they do the best they can to assist within their scope of practice.

Mental health is one of the leading (dis)eases of our time, and is a multi tiered landscape that is not easily tackled, and requires many partners and working parts, outside of policing in order to fundamentally establish sustainable change. Policing is only one piece of this puzzle.

In the VPD’s defense, their Police Community Response Team operates several “cars” and teams that provide services and support of people struggling with significant life challenges on the DTES, like mental health and the dual problem of addiction.

Hope in Shadows 2011 Calendar Photo

Car 87 teams up a Vancouver Police constable with a registered nurse or a registered psychiatric nurse to provide on-site assessments and intervention for people with psychiatric problems. The nurse and the police officer work as a team in assessing, managing and deciding about the most appropriate action to take.

This program is a partnership between the Vancouver Police Department and Vancouver Coastal Health Authority – Mental Health Emergency Services (MHES); which was initiated in 1984 and was formalized in 1987.

In 2002, MHES logged approximately 13,000 calls and conducted approximately 1,850 outreach calls which resulted in 382 hospitalizations.  In the 2010 “report card” outlined in the report “Policing Vancouver’s Mentally ill: The Disturbing Truth, Lost in Transition Part 2” the following were added to our city to support the VPD’s strategies:

• An additional 40 pre- and 40 post-transitional treatment beds were added to the BCMHA model of care.
• The City ofVancouvermade significant progress with respect to housing with some 2855 new, and to be built housing units coming on line.
• The three-year Federal Mental Health Commission of Canada “At Home/Chez Soi” project will also bring 300 new housing units on stream
• An Additional service with the VPD/Mental Health Emergency Services (MHES) Car 87 now offers, within the same unit, now can address concurrent disorder or dual diagnosis clients.
• A high level of daily contact requiring information exchange and cooperation between police and health services in Vancouverwith some 16,500 citywide such calls for service in 2009
• The City ofVancouverhad 69 suicides in 2008 and 84 suicides in 2007.

From a national perspective,Vancouverhas become the jurisdiction in which drug policy issues and different approaches to substance abuse are implemented, evaluated and debatedCanadawide. The VPD drug policy is based on a Four Pillars strategy of prevention, enforcement, harm reduction, and treatments, and they do a great job within their scope of practice. Drug reform, as we know needs to be re addressed and so does our national mental health strategy, but this of course in the hands of the health authorities and policy makers, not the VPD.

A shortage of low cost housing and a disconnect between social assistance/ shelter allowance and the price of rent is also a major consideration. All of which takes time, persistence and the ability to work together to achieve a sustainable result.

As a collective society, I believe it is time for all of us to take personal responsibility for what we are most passionate about and to take the time to learn, understand and investigate. The more we learn, the more we evolve. The more we blame, and only see one side of a story, the more we limit our perspective and the more we de-evolve.

Cst. Steve is one beat cop putting himself out there, and like anyone in the public eye, will be scrutinized. We need to understand that the position of police within the lens of mental health is to be a neutral partner, but one that assists this specific population within their scope and to be a ‘transitional” partner as they work health authorities, social workers, and key policy makers in this field.

As the global landscape of our community continues to change, so does our need for support, additional bandwidth and empowerment through positive connection, communication and community service. Due to an unprecedented rise in public interest and demand for safer communities, it has become clear that we need to start thinking more collectively within our networks and become empowered to become agents of change in our own capacity.

This morning, I awoke to many “digs” at the VPD, media centered around the negativity of comments, rather then the positive message the VPD was trying to portray. My philosophy has always been “walk a mile in someone else’s shoes” and see through the lens of another (especially if you oppose it). There is a vast difference between fact and reality, when we choose to have a limited scope and appreciation of any one story.

Vancouver Police Department Officers Wall

This blog piece is dedicated to the men and women who serve every day to keep the peace, who work day in and day out on the DTES. To all those who oppose, I feel your struggle with the need to solve this giant landscape of mental health. My only wish is that one day we can achieve a society where we harness the power of solutions, along with our voice, rather then misinterpret and  merely “wag the finger.”

For more info on the VPD and mental health units please read the statistical reporting and cross pollination of the VPD, CMHA (Canadian Mental Health Association) and Federal positioning.

Sources: http://vancouver.ca/police/assets/pdf/reports-policies/vpd-lost-in-transition-part-2-exec-summary-draft.pdf

Cst. Steve’s Blog: Diary of a Beat Cop Blog: http://www.beatcopdiary.vpd.ca/

What is LIBERATED TRANSPERANCY?

A brief conversation towards adaptive solutions towards youth, outreach and transitional services.  Let’s stop stigma in it’s tracks and change the face of (me)ntal (heal)th, (dis)advantaged youth at risk, and people living with (dis)abilities and significant life challenges. We challenge (YOU) to help stop this (dis)ease and start (em)powering our youth! Join the “Conversation.

 lib·er·at·ed ~ to be set free from opression . The act/process to achieve equal rights

trans·par·en·cy ~ implies openness, communication, and accountability in action 

Salon Series “Liberated Transparency”:

Organized salons are one way to reclaim the valuable art of public conversation and an authentic way to uncover new movements; that can be forged through a collective collaboration. A Salon is a way of capturing the depth of knowledge that exists within our networks, where the audience and speaker panel can openly discuss ideas, questions and solutions that resonate with them professionally, as well as personally.

This Salon Series showcases 3 speakers and an audience of 30 invited guests in the fields of mental health and populations facing significant life challenges in the areas of mental or physical disabilities and youth at risk.  All carefully selected and are thematically connected to 3 main conversation pillars: “Youth,” “Outreach,” and “Transition.”

When: Thursday December 8th, 2011

Where: TD Tower, Vancouver BC

Time: 6:oopm – 7:30pm (90mins – ish)

RSVP: Yes, Space is Limited. Only 30 guests invited to attend.

The Organizations:

• CMHA ~ Canadian Mental Health Association (www.cmha.ca)
• VPD ~ Vancouver Police Deptartment & Response Teams (http://vancouver.ca/police/organization/investigation/youth-services/community-response.html)
• PTB ~ Power to Be Adventure Therapy (www.powertobe.ca/)

OUTREACH PILLAR: The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is a voluntary association that exists to promote the mental health of all people and the resilience and recovery of those with mental illness. Spearheading the national mental health strategy, they work with provincial and national health authorities, policy makers, government officials, and community divisions.

YOUTH PILLAR: Power to Be Adventure Therapy is an important service filling the rapidly widening gaps in the health, education and social service sectors. Working hard to breakdown barriers facing young people and families living with significant life challenges. Power To Be is the only organization that provides long-term support needs to three key user groups: at risk youth, youth living with a life threatening illness or disability and families faced with supporting a member living with a disability.

TRANSITION PILLAR: Vancouver Police Department:  the VPD Community Response Team operates several “cars” and teams that provide services/ support to Vancouver youth & mental health operators. The VPD works with the B.C. Ministry for Children and Family Development and the Vancouver Coastal Health Authorities – (MHES). An interdisciplinary approach consisting of police officers teamed up with social workers, nurses and community organizations.

Speakers will speak for 8mins each, brevity is the name of the game, guests are asked to deliberate and network, then fill out a 3 question artifact worksheet exercise and then engage in an open forum discussion period of Q&A (this is where the magic happens)!

In the themed Salon “Liberated Transparency” we ask ourselves:

What is my unique contribution to my community as the whole? How do I personally view mental health, mental illness, addiction, physical disabilities, disadvantaged populations etc? How could I empower others to reach beyond the confines of stigma facing these disempowered populations? These questions may seem vague, but they will lead into a more specific discussion of larger societal issues, that generate the most personal,  , and passionate discussions. I invite you to offer your unique and insightful opinions during this Salon Series.

My Mission:

To bring together passionate people and organizations dedicated to changing the face of mental health, disadvantaged youth, and populations struggling with significant life challenges; through positive motivators, re-education, new “out of the box” thinking and specific programs/services and adaptive  strategies that involve sport, nature and inclusion with others. I want to empower our youth and YOU to be the change.

Want to attend? Calling on youth & change makers…

I.AM actively seeking guests who are youth, local change makers – who are empowered to change the face of mental health & youth at risk and are leaders in their field –  who can make a strong contribution to the this discussion and the “idea worth spreading”  through their energy, influence, participation and connections to change our current landscape.

This is part of the “Join the Superhero Campaign & RUN4ACAUSE Action Network.”

This weekend marked the final BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) of RUN4ACAUSE 2011! On Sunday, October 9^th I ran the Victoria Marathon, plus a few more km thrown in for good measure, for a whopping 45km race supporting one of my favorite non profits, and local hero’s Power To Be Adventure Therapy.  Power To Be is a pioneer in the arena of sport philanthropy and inclusive support, through their wilderness and adaptive recreation programs for mentally, physically and disadvantaged youth.

I found myself overwhelmed and much to be thankful for on this Thanksgiving weekend. Truth be told, I was apprehensive of the outcome, having suffered a series of injuries leading up to the event day and I wondered if I could even finish the mileage set forth before me. And then I remembered,  “A warrior is not about perfection or victory or invulnerability. He’s about absolute vulnerability” Peaceful Warrior it’s the journey that brings us happiness, not the destination.

When we take the time to focus our attention on the journey, we see that every step we take is success, every km marker is a tribute to the trials and tribulations we have taken along the way; including all the pit stops, all the detours and all the road blocks are ultimately the success we have been searching for. Life’s purpose is a journey, a path – not a “destination” per say . This is a great metaphor for life.

RUN4ACAUSE has raced out from the shadows and into the light, with the sole purpose of liberating others to let their own light shine. It has been less than a year since I started telling my story and my goal of raising $1 million dollars.

Since January 2011, I have logged well-over 2,462km; which has included 3 marathons, numerous half marathons, a 100km, adventure race and a 6km per day dedication for 365 days (currently on day 217), empowering 100’s of students and youth to hop on board, raising well over $20,000 in 2011, and more importantly bringing awareness and support to organizations, like Power To Be Adventure Therapy. This is why I run, not to beat down me current time, but to build up the idea that anyone – everyone- has the power to generate goodness in the world.

 ” What is the origin of the terrible fears that so hinder us in the making of our hearts desire: a better world? Every human being, however small or weak, has something to bring to humanity. In our beautiful universe, there are suns and stars, as well as the multitude of small animals and plants that are important because of their beauty, their healing qualities, and their capacity to give life. Every part of the body is important and has a role to play in our overall well-being.

In the same way, each person, big or small has a role to play in the world. When we being the movement from exclusion to inclusion, from fear to trust, from closed ness to openness, we begin to move with the heart. We begin to see each other as part of a greater humanity. We are no longer governed by fear but by the heart.”

~ Jean Vanier, author of Becoming Human, CBC Massey Lecture Series

This weekend was a testament to this idea. On Sunday, Kevin Chapman, Director of Communications for Power To Be  and my host for the weekend took it upon himself to challenge his own human potential and embark on running his first half marathon.

Not so much a runner for sport (his words), but merely for recreation and runner-of-a-muck for all things adventurous, Kevin had a great foundation going into the half. So good, he finished in an amazing time of 1hr 50sec. Let me be the first to say that (a) that is a huge accomplishment right our of the gates and (b) it’s official Kevin Chapman beat my half marathon time, as my PR is only 1hr 58sec.  Applause goes out to Kevin for a well earned success! Power To Be would be proud and so are we!

It’s not too late to donate and support – Check out www.powertobe.ca for more information on their various levels of giving.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So what’s next for RUN4ACAUSE?

2012 holds many opportunities, and even though my legs will
be “off season recovery” mode (for the most part), there is much brewing and a 2012 vision board has already begun to take shape.

A sneak peek can include guaranteed a marathon off the continent in a country I will most likely have to learn the language of, a 101km relay event for International Women’s Day, and a high chance of unorthodox, over the top marathons, a couple ultras and may even indulge in scaling a couple mountains somewhere in the ball park between questionable and crazy. Why?…. ask yourself this… Why not?

Stay tuned and don’t forget to check out my Races 2012 tab – wanna RUN4ACAUSE?

On Sunday October 9th, I will be rocking the Victoria Marathon, supporting Power to Be Adventure Therapy. Now, of course I am a nutter and have to do everything unorthodox – so I am raising the bar, going out with a bang – running 50km! I mean, why not right? It’s for the kids!

Why should you pledge to support Power to Be?

My goal in 2012 is to change the face of mental health, to change the perspective of those who face mental and physical challenges and those who are disenfranchised, marginalized. Power To Be is in the business of changing lives by providing dynamic outdoor education programs that enrich the health and quality of life of youth, adults and families facing significant life challenges.

They achieve this mission by providing unique and inclusive year-round outdoor education curriculum that promotes physical heath and emotional well-being, advocates for accessibility, develops interpersonal and leadership skills, teaches environmental and social stewardship, offers peer mentorship and supports vocational opportunities. It’s EPIC!

You have the power to give…

….a kid living with cancer the chance to be a kid again

….a troubled teen an opportunity to grow in nature

….a person the opportunity to get out of their wheelchair and into a sea kayak

How cool is that!

In addition to an amazing org, their staff is equally amazing. Kevin Chapman, Director of Communications, whom I met at TEDxKIDS@BC has offered me his air mattress for the weekend, but this busy bird forgot to book a hotel room, and Tim Comrode has asked me to join the family “his staff, volunteers and kids’ for Gobble Fest Turk-a-lurkey Dinner.

This is what “Immersion and Inclusion” are about. This is what we call community.

I hope you can join me and support this cause that is so close to my heart I am making it part of my own CSR and professional annual giving program AND they are in my will (yes I said will). If you want to leave a legacy, you can’t sit on your hind parts – you gotta get out there and make it happen. Join me and RUN4ACAUSE!

To donate to a direct program visit: http://www.powertobe.ca/?pid=donate_

To donate to “Join my Superhero Campaign” visit:

Pledge Page can be found via CanadaHelps

- http://www.canadahelps.org/GivingPages/GivingPage.aspx?gpID=14417

“It is not our darkness that frightens us most, it is our light. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, fabulous and talented. Actually, who are you not to be? We are all meant to shine, and when you allow your own light to shine, you unconsciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, we automatically liberate others.”  ~ Marianne Williamson

This quote seems to be everywhere I look these days. It has been a guiding reminder of my own path and journey I am currently on.

Not even two weeks ago it was my closing statement in my TEDxKids@BC talk, but tonight I was elated to hear, Marianne Williamson has also been a teacher to Gabby Bernstein, well known author of   ”Add more ing to your Life,” and newest addition to her literally repertoire, A course in miracles, “Spirit Junkie.”

Last night I was joined with many friends and like minded powerful women as we sat and listened to Gabby tell her personal journey on her North American book tour. beautifully hosted and orchestrated by Conscious Divas, two lovely local Divas, Kate Muker and Julia King pioneering the next “we”volution of young and empowered women.

Gabby’s personal story is simple; it acts to instruct us all on how to “expect miracles” in our own lives, and to Be the Change, by Be-“ing” the Love throughout our own lives. Two statements came to me in the middle of the night, as I reflected on an amazing evening centered around gratitude and acceptance; and those statements are WE need to start telling stories. We need to expect miracles.

The truth is, we all have stories, epic tales of our own lives. We all have trials and tribulations, the desire to do and be more – and this concept, this ideology is the foundation of our spirit.

In my TEDxKids@BC talk, “The Re Invention of the Modern Day Superhero – the SuperHuman-itarian;’ a Superheroine is someone who has found or done something beyond the normal range of achievement of experience. A Superheroine is someone who has given his or her life to the service of others in some capacity, something larger then one’s self. They offer us a vision of a better world a changed world, a more unified world, and how WE can through the search for our own truth, our own significance and meaning in life, and how we can take the necessary steps to changing our own world, in a very real way.

We all have a story to be told and heard, we all have a path that unfolds before us. As I listened to her candid story I realized how many similarities there are between the chapters in her life and those of the women in our own community, in my own life and in  mom’s life, as she fought with addiction and fear. We are all trapped by our own fear. It reminded me  of a Salon Series, by the Vancouver Acumen Fund that featured Chimamanda Adichie’s classic TED talk warning of “The Danger of a Single Story,” and a short story in which Eisha-May Walker, a 12 year old girl living in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, reflects on her life in a neighbourhood commonly associated with poverty, substance abuse, and mental illness.

As I reflected, an idea sprung to me ~ our stories are unique, yet are shared experiences breed our commonality. More importamtly, how do we get Gabby’s amazing message to the many women and young girls who may not have the opportunity to attend an event like tonight’s? Women and young girls that are marginalized by poverty or disenfranchised.

Mosaic Heart of the Community - 2008 DTES Sidewalk Art

The women and girls I am talking about are the women and girls on the DTES, in inner city schools, in transitional programs, as well as the women and girls around the world who are compassionately fighting to have a voice, to have the choice to live better, more love filled lives. The women who may not have the resources via mainstream innovation or societal contexts.

My quest has always been to share, to connect and to empower in any capacity that comes to me, that talks to me and drives my work forward. RUN4ACAUSE is only part of the equation, its one vehicle by which I can spread awareness and love for great causes.

Today I pose these questions:

1. How do we open the conversation to those outside the traditional framework of modern societal gatherings?
2. How do we allow more women to tell their stories, express their own miracles and personal successes.
3. How to we offer them A Course in Miracles? and What can you do to help facilitate this movement?

This will be my next endeavor during my “off season” from RUN4ACAUSE (aka my recovery season from Nov – Feb).

I beleive this may be a great topic for our own Salon Series, an open authentic conversation on “the road to radical miracles.” I welcome all comments and feedback and ask you to ponder and reflect. Spirit Junkie, is an amazing read and Gabby’s message will no doubt start a Re”love”olution!

For more info on Gabby Bernstein visit: http://gabbyb.tv/

For more info on Conscious Divas visit: http://www.consciousdivas.com/

ASHA - Sarah Jamieson's Supheroine alter ego

An amazing conference took place yesterday – TedXKids@BC showcased the extraordinary talent, passion and creativity behind our children and youth.

As part of the Ted team our vision was to invite kids and youth to explore their passions, to live in a world in which they’ve been granted the right to influence decisions impacting their lives. A world in which they stand up with adults as equals and use their creativity and skills to make a brighter future for us all!

My speech was “The Re-Invention of the Modern Day Superhero – The SuperHuman-itarian” and the call for action starts now and I need your help, I cannot achieve this alone.

These Superheroes, these SuperHuman-itarians are the NEW social crusaders sprung from the need of empowerment, the seed of a changing global landscape of interconnection and diversification.

Why Superheroes? Because the explore the global boundaries and allow us to explore our own self awareness as we make our way through life and discover our own truths and offer us a glimpse of how we can dig deep and take the necessary steps to save our world, in a very real way. That time is now!

THE CALL TO ACTION: RUN A MILE IN SOMEONE ELSE’S SHOES CAMPAIGN GOAL

** 1,000 Views & 1,000 Pledges = $16,000.00

***STATS: In one mile I run approx. 1,600 steps in 12 mins, the length of my tedx talk, now if I ask 10 of my friends to view my talk and pledge 1 CENT PER 1 STEP. That = $16.00 ( 1 View. 1 Pledge. 1 SuperHuman-itarian = 12mins)

** If we all ask 100 viewers  and they ask their friends to watch & pledge our POTENTIAL IMPACT= expodentially raises to $160,000.00 supporting great causes that YOU choose!

~~~~HOW~~~~

1. WATCH the talk live or View it After (online coming soon) Join our facebook page for more details – https://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=137981032965325

2. PLEDGE: 1 Step + 1 Cent + 1,604 Steps (steps per/mile /12 min Ted Talk)
= $16.04

3. Choose ACAUSE to support from the 6 options below (3 Local/ 3
International)

4. SHARE: Ask 10 of your friends to view the talk and pledge and “Like” our event
on Facebook!

~~~~THE CAUSES~~~~

LOCAL

** Power To Be Adventure Therapy**

** Canadian Mental Health Association**

** Pivot Foundation/ Hope in Shadows**

All 3 Pledge Pages can be found via CanadaHelps

- http://www.canadahelps.org/GivingPages/GivingPage.aspx?gpID=14417

INTERNATIONAL

** Care Canada** http://my.e2rm.com/personalPage.aspx?registrationID=1257949&langPref=en-CA

** Plan – Because I am a Girl** http://my.e2rm.com/personalPage.aspx?SID=3134148&Lang=en-CA

** Free the Children** http://my.e2rm.com/personalPage.aspx?registrationID=1257932&langPref=en-CA

It only takes one SuperHuman-itarian to create change and that person is you! Think about the impact we could make right now! Right here – in a mere 12mins! JOIN MY SUPERHERO CAMPAIGN: VIEW. PLEDGE. SHARE!

Yours in Superhero-ism: Sarah Jamieson (aka ASHA)

Care Canada – The I am Powerful Campaign

MissionStatement

CARE Canada’s mission is to serve individuals and families in the poorest communities in the world. Drawing strength from our global diversity, resources and experience, we promote innovative solutions and are advocates for global responsibility. We facilitate lasting change by:

Strengthening capacity for self-help; Influencing policy decisions at all levels;  Providing economic opportunity; Addressing discrimination in all its forms; Deliver relief in emergencies.

Description

CARE Canada was established in 1946 as part of an international network bringing emergency relief to the people of Europe. CARE’s commitment to humanitarian assistance continues to this day, and is complimented by a broad range of long term development programmes in water and community health, agroforestry and conservation, and small enterprise and income generation. Once the immediate crisis is over, CARE works with communities to re-establish stability.

I Am Powerful:  Women and girls’ empowerment

I am Powerful: these are the words that represent CARE’s belief that we all have the power to change our world. Together, we are strong. We are resilient. We can make a difference.

When a woman or girl is empowered, entire families and communities prosper. But when women and girls are not allowed to participate in the economic empowerment or dialogue of their society, half of the potential of that community is put to waste and half of its ideas are silenced.

CARE is bringing this I am Powerful message to Canadians and is challenging past notions that portray women and girls living in poverty as victims, rather than survivors. I Am Powerful is a true representation of the women and girls living in the developing world. It is about their strength, their resilience and their inherent power to fight poverty and effect positive change.

Join CARE in the fight against global poverty. Help empower millions of women and girls around the world to transform their lives and the lives of those around them.

** CareCanada**

http://my.e2rm.com/personalPage.aspx?registrationID=1257949&langPref=en-CA

For more information on CARE Canada, visit www.care.ca.