Ally Carter and Kyra O'Hagan are both hoping to make a difference.
The two 20-year-old local university students have been tutoring in the school system. That experience has given them a firsthand look at the mental health challenges that have been created for children and teens during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
"Kids were so affected by COVID-19 and we also wanted to break the stigma for youth," said Ally. a second-year University of Guelph Biomedical Science student.
"As time goes on the next generation is struggling so much more it is just so important to advocate for those to reach out who are struggling. So many people just go silent so it is so important to reach out when you are struggling and that is what we are really trying to focus on."
The two friends have been planning for six months for the five-kilometre event called, "Ally and Kyra's Mental Health Fundraiser," which will take place at 2 p.m. on June 5 at the North Bay waterfront.
They say their inaugural run/walk event is full, as each runner was asked to pay a minimum fee of $10 to participate.
"Lots of people have donated already," said Kyra O'Hagan, a Biology student who finished her second year at Nipissing University.
"A lot of friends and family have reached out and want to be involved and many donated way more than the minimum required."
All proceeds will be donated to the North Bay Regional Health Centres Youth Mental Health Unit.
Ally and Kyra are hoping this can become an annual event.
"Even if we can just help one person that's what we really want to do," said Ally.
Anyone interested in donating to the cause can email Kyra at [email protected]
