Youth Leading the Way: A Conversation with Delaney Neukomm

Today, the annual walk continues to raise awareness and funds for Foundry services while bringing students, educators and community partners together around an important message: no young person should struggle alone.

In 2026, the Walk raised $17,607 in support of a new Foundry site on the Westside, bringing it to a total of $53,259 raised for youth mental health services through Foundry since 2023.

Now a Youth Engagement Specialist with CMHA Kelowna & District, Delaney is helping shape the Not Alone: Bridging the Gap campaign to bring Foundry services to the Westside. We sat down with her to reflect on the journey, the impact of the walk and why youth voice continues to matter.

What inspired you to start the Walk for Mental Health?

It began as a school leadership project, but it quickly became personal. During and after COVID, I watched friends struggle with their mental health, and like many young people, I did not know where to turn for help. I became someone my friends leaned on, but I also realized I did not have the knowledge or resources to support them the way they deserved.

When I discovered Foundry, I was surprised I had never heard of it. It immediately became clear that this was the resource I wished we had known about. That is why we chose to support Foundry through the walk.

What impact has the walk had?

The walk has become much more than a fundraising event. It has created space for conversations about mental health, helped reduce stigma and introduced students to Foundry and other community supports.

One of the most meaningful outcomes has been seeing students build relationships with Foundry staff year after year. When support feels familiar, reaching out becomes much less intimidating.

Why are conversations about mental health so important, especially in schools?

Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet many young people still worry about being judged if they ask for help.

One of my favourite moments came this year when a student told us that meeting Foundry staff at the walk made them feel comfortable accessing services if they ever needed them. That is exactly why these conversations matter — they help make asking for help feel normal.

How has organizing the walk shaped you?

The walk helped me grow in ways I never expected. It challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, develop leadership skills and discover a passion for youth mental health.

It also shaped my career. Working alongside CMHA Kelowna and Foundry inspired me to pursue this path, and today I am fortunate to continue that work as part of the team.

What stood out to you about this year's walk?

Seeing hundreds of students from schools across the district come together was incredible. The event has grown into a true community movement, with returning schools, volunteers and community organizations all sending the same message to young people: we are here for you.

How does it feel knowing the funds are now helping bring Foundry to the Westside?

It is incredibly meaningful. Many Mount Boucherie students live on the Westside, so knowing the walk is helping bring services closer to home feels like everything has come full circle.

I am proud of what the walk has contributed, but this has always been a community effort. Every student, volunteer, teacher, donor and supporter has helped move us closer to making this a reality.

What is next?

The work does not stop once a site is ready. We still need to raise awareness so young people and families know Foundry is there; understand what services are available and feel comfortable reaching out.

My hope is that the Walk for Mental Health continues to inspire those conversations, helping ensure every young person knows they are not alone.

How to Support the Campaign to Bring a Foundry site to the Westside

The Not Alone: Bridging the Gap campaign is about bringing Foundry services closer to young people and families in West Kelowna, Westbank FirstNation, and Peachland.

Your support can help ensure more youth have access to mental health care, substance use services, peer support, family support, and wellness resources when they need them most.

Donate here

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