The Co-operators and the Canadian Mental Health Association get ready to "Ride Don't Hide" for mental health in Halton

GUELPH, ON, June 11, 2015 /CNW/ - On June 21, The Co-operators will be joining the Canadian Mental Health Association – Halton Region Branch, along with thousands of Canadians from all walks of life, for the fourth annual Ride Don't Hide community bike ride in support of mental health.

The Canadian Mental Health Association's (CMHA) annual cycling fundraiser brings together Canadians of all ages and from all walks of life to help break the stigma and raise funds to improve mental health in their community. Ride Don't Hide began as one man's journey around the world and has grown to a national movement to raise awareness and decrease stigma around mental illness. This year, the CMHA aims to raise $1 million by engaging more than 6,000 participants in 28 events in cities in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario.

"We are happy to be working with the Canadian Mental Health Association – Halton Region Branch to raise much needed awareness and funds for mental health through the Ride Don't Hide event," said Kathy Bardswick, CEO and president of The Co-operators. "We want to play a part in reducing the stigma associated with mental health problems, and be part of a constructive dialogue around the issue."

Kathy Bardswick will be a speaker at the event, along with The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.

"Ride Don't Hide is an opportunity to come together as a community and say mental health is important to me, and it's ok to talk about," says Radhika Subramanyan, Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Mental Health Association – Halton Region Branch. "We are so thankful for the support from the community and are looking forward to an inspiring day on June 21."

Cyclists of all ages and abilities - novice to advanced – are invited to join the fun, family-friendly event. Funds raised through this event go directly towards improving mental health in communities across Canada and supporting CMHA mental health programs. To register and donate online please visit http://ridedonthide.com/on/ride/halton/.

About the Canadian Mental Health Association Halton Region Branch
The Canadian Mental Health Association – Halton Region Branch provides support, including case management, crisis support and free walk-in counselling, to people who have mental health and/or addiction concerns. They also offer education about mental health, wellness, and addictions as well as information about community services. More information is available at www.halton.cmha.ca.

About The Co-operators:
The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian-owned co-operative with more than $40 billion in assets under administration. Through its group of companies it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada by Aon Hewitt; Corporate Knights' Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada; and the Top 50 Socially Responsible Corporations in Canada by Sustainalytics and Maclean's magazine. For more information visit www.cooperators.ca.

SOURCE Canadian Mental Health Association Halton Region Branch

Melanie McGregor, Canadian Mental Health Association Halton Region Branch, 289-291-5395, [email protected]; Leonard Sharman, The Co-operators, 519-767-3937