Youth Leading the Way: A Conversation with Madi McIlmoyle

Since its inception in 2023, the Walk for Mental Health has raised $53,259 in support of Foundry’s youth mental health services, with $17,607 of it raised this year (2026) helping bring a Foundry site to the Westside through the Not Alone: Bridging the Gap campaign by CMHA Kelowna & District.

But the event is not just about funds raised, it is about bringing young people together, sharing helpful resources with one another, and normalizing the conversation about mental health.

As co-chair of the 2026 Walk for Mental Health, Madi McIlmoyle helped lead the event's biggest year yet with about five hundred students in attendance. She reflects on what inspired her to get involved, the impact the walk is having, and why supporting youth mental health continues to matter.

What inspired you to get involved with the Walk for Mental Health?

Someone very close to me struggled with their mental health, and seeing the impact it had on them made me realize how important it is to raise awareness and remind people that they are never alone.

To me, the walk represents community, hope and growth. Every year, it is inspiring to see students come together in such a positive and supportive environment to learn more about mental health and show up for one another.

Why do you think the walk has become so meaningful?

The walk creates a space where students feel connected and supported. It helps normalize conversations about mental health and reminds young people that it is okay to ask for help.

As youth, we are constantly dealing with challenges and emotions. The more we talk about mental health, the more we help break the stigma that can prevent people from reaching out.

How has helping organize the walk shaped you?

Being part of the organizing team has helped me grow both as a leader and as a person. It has given me the opportunity to become more involved in my school community while contributing to something that has a lasting impact.

Knowing that our efforts are helping support other young people has made every challenge along the way worthwhile.

What moment from this year's walk stands out the most?

Seeing how much the walk has grown since it first began was incredible. This was our biggest and most successful year yet, and it was exciting to see so many students, volunteers and community partners come together for a shared cause.

It makes me optimistic about what this event can continue to achieve in the years ahead.

What does it mean to know this year's funds are helping bring Foundry to the Westside?

It is incredibly rewarding to know that everything our team worked so hard to organize is going right back into our community.

Knowing this year's fundraising is helping bring Foundry services closer to home means more young people and families will have access to support when they need it most. That is something everyone involved in the walk can be proud of.

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How You Can Support the Campaign to Bring Foundry 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 First Nation, 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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