ABOUT US
Glengarry Mental Health Initiative is a not-for-profit organization that was created by youth in the Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry region to end the stigma around asking for help when struggling with mental health. Our community has seen numerous tragic events as a result of mental health, which has resulted in the loss of beloved friends, family, and community members. ​
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By offering funds for those in need of professional support, we are ensuring every community member is getting the care they need. This is a proactive approach to combatting mental illness, and is a top priority in preventing future tragedies. Our goal is to make mental health resources more accessible and affordable, and as a result, we aim to decrease the stigma around mental health.​
OUR TEAM
Get to know us;
NICK DANAHER
Nick grew up near Bainsville, Ontario, situated in South Glengarry. Nick attended Charlan District High School, which eventually lead to his studies at the University of Ottawa for Finance. He currently works as a Trading Associate for PWL Capital Inc., an Investment Firm headquartered in Ottawa. Nick has a keen interest in supporting the community. He contributes to the GMHI team by using his business knowledge to help record, budget, monitor and better allocate GMHI’s resources.
MEARA MACDONELL
Growing up in Summerstown, ON, Meara attended Charlan District High School, and a recently obtained an undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering at Queen's University. Her interest in mental health began by realizing the absence of a discussion around such an important issue that affects everyone. Meara applies her skills in website development to create and manage the organization's website. She also uses her skills in graphic design to market the initiative on social media platforms and create visuals that represent the GMHI's purpose
HANNAH MCDONELL
Hannah grew up in Williamstown, Ontario, located in South Glengarry. Hannah attended Charlan District high school, continuing her education at St. Lawrence college for Business, specializing in Human Resources. Hannah is currently in her final year at the Atlantic Technological University for Human Resource Management. She has always been passionate about helping her community and advocating for the best possible resources within SD&G. Hannah contributes to the GMHI team by working along side local businesses and organizations to provide better mental health resources for community members.
SARA LAKING
Sara is from Williamstown, Ontario located in South Glengarry. She attended local Charlan District High School and is now studying at Bishop's University for elementary education, while minoring in Psychology. Sara has always felt passionate about mental health issues and is dedicated to giving everyone the opportunity to get the help they need and deserve. Sara contributes to the GMHI team through creative expertise and knowledge in communicating and listening to those in need of support.
LACHLAN MCDONELL
Lachlan McDonell is currently studying Economics at Bishops University is Lennoxville, Quebec. He enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing sports and reading. He is happy to be apart of this initiative and looks forward to facilitating mental health resources to members of our community.
LAUREN MCLEOD
Lauren is from Martintown, Ontario. She attended Holy Trinity Catholic High School in Grade Nine and Ten, then transferred to Charlan District High School in Grade Eleven where she graduated in Grade Twelve. Lauren then attended Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario for her undergraduate studies in Political Science and continued her education at Queen’s University with a Master’s in Religious Studies; with a research focus in religious and women’s rights. Lauren is currently attending teacher's college in Scotland to pursue a career in teaching. She has always been passionate in advocating for community needs and locating new and creative ways to promote and connect individuals to resources within the SD&G region.