WINNIPEG — Struggling alone with mental health problems can be overwhelming. Knowing how tough it can be, a Winnipeg woman has created a community outreach organization dedicated to children and their families.
Angela Taylor’s ultimate goal is to ensure people know there’s hope and help.
“My mom struggled with very severe mental health issues and growing up was very difficult,” Taylor said. “I ended up going into Child and Family Services for a lot of my childhood.
Taylor’s mother died by suicide 16 years ago.
To help others experiencing mental health challenges, Taylor decided to create Inspire Community Outreach, an organization that provides information, support and workshops for children and their families.
“Maybe it is that you’re not sure who to contact at EIA or you need a place to play with your child, or if that place doesn’t exist maybe our team can create it,” Taylor said.
Aly Raposo has a personal stake in getting involved with Inspire Community Outreach. Faced with plenty of hurdles throughout her life, Raposo also feels the need to help others navigate their journey through mental health.
“I have generalized anxiety disorder as well as depression, obsessive compulsive disorder and auditory hallucinations,” Raposo said. The words flow so easily as she has shared her experience many times. Her very first public speech was last May at a walk for mental health awareness.
“I told my story about my own mental illness and how it’s not a weakness and it’s not anything to be ashamed of,” she said. “We’re all so powerful and strong because of it and it’s not something we need to be afraid to talk about.”
The range of services and supports offered by Inspire Community Outreach is wide. Learn more about some of the fundraising events and how to get connected with the group.