The 4th Annual Walk for Courage, held July 19, raised an incredible $45,698 in support of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Grey Bruce, smashing previous records and shining a powerful spotlight on community support for mental health and suicide prevention.
The event, created in memory of Jeff Courage, continues to grow in impact and participation. For the first time, the Walk for Courage expanded beyond Owen Sound with a new location added at Sulphur Spring Conservation Area in Hanover.
Hanover’s inaugural walk began with remarks from Mayor Sue Paterson, Police Chief Chris Knoll, and CMHA Grey Bruce CEO Stephen Musehl. Musehl emphasized the need to “build strong, supportive communities throughout Grey and Bruce counties.”
In Owen Sound, the walk kicked off from Owen Sound Fitness and Training, the local site sponsor. Mayor Ian Boddy and Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Paul Vickers welcomed walkers, highlighting the importance of connection, remembrance, and collective healing.
The 2025 event also featured the first-ever Walk for Courage online auction, which raised $6,185. A standout item was a West Jet “Gift Of Flight” bundle that alone generated $2,500.
Team Courage was the top fundraiser, bringing in $3,615. Among individuals, Lynda Legge led all participants with $3,535 raised, followed by Kristina Rettie with $950 and Guy Courage with $825.
Participants walked to honour loved ones lost to suicide and to support those navigating mental health challenges. Over 60 shirts in the newly launched Walk for Courage colour were sold, creating a striking visual across both sites.
“To see our community come together with such passion and commitment to their community is truly inspiring,” said Krystal Stukas, Fund Development Coordinator at CMHA Grey Bruce. “From the new Hanover location to the energy in Owen Sound and the success of our first-ever auction, this year’s Walk for Courage has been nothing short of incredible.”
Event co-organizer and Jeff’s father, Greg Courage, expressed his gratitude.
“Every year, we are blown away by the community’s response," he explained. "This walk is about connection, healing, and remembering. The support we receive from individuals, businesses, and families makes all the difference.”
Funds raised go directly toward mental health education, support, and suicide prevention programs in Grey and Bruce counties.
This was also the first year the Walk welcomed event sponsorships. Dozens of local businesses stepped forward, including:
Gold Sponsors: Baywest Nissan, Tibbs Cash ATM Services
Silver Sponsors: RBC, Jerry Pfeil Mazda, Edgewell, Four County Labour Market Planning Board, Nicol Insurance, Owen Sound Dental Clinic, Sideroad Farm, Owen Sound Subaru
For more information about CMHA Grey Bruce programs, visit www.greybruce.cmha.ca.