By Effie Pow
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In a heartwarming display of community spirit and support, Crisis Centre of BC youth educator volunteer Mirrick Koh stepped onto the pitcher’s mound to throw the ceremonial opening pitch at the Vancouver Canadians RBC We Care Wednesday baseball game on May 31, 2023 against the Eugene Emeralds. This special event brought together an incredible team of Crisis Centre staff and volunteers – including Ari, Clio, Nic, Mirrick, Muskaan, and Parsa – who joined forces with RBC to raise awareness for crisis intervention and suicide prevention and share valuable resources with baseball fans. As the sun beamed down on Nat Bailey Stadium, a beautiful blend of fun, sport, and camaraderie filled the air.
“It was an awesome experience, and I was so glad I said yes to this unique opportunity,” said Koh.
The day was not only impactful but also filled with unforgettable memories. “Getting to cheer on the Vancouver Canadians, and the sushi racers, while representing the Centre alongside our wonderful volunteers was really special,” said Neda Shadbakht, the Centre’s Strategic Partnerships Coordinator, as she recounted her first baseball experience.
“As part of our RBC We Care Wednesday program, we get the great opportunity to shine the light on some amazing charity organizations that exist in our community,” said Walter Cosman, Vice President of Sales & Marketing for the Vancouver Canadians Professional Baseball Club. “As a father of two teenage daughters, I know the prevalence of mental health challenges in our community, and I’m glad that there are organizations like the Crisis Center there to support them if needed.”
Mental health awareness in sports is gaining more public attention. A study by the University of Toronto suggests that elite Canadian athletes experience mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety and eating disorders more frequently than most people realize. Major League Baseball (MLB) has recently made news headlines for adjusting its approach to mental health, which helps players prioritize their mental health both on and off the field.
The Crisis Centre extends its heartfelt gratitude to RBC and the Vancouver Canadians for their commitment to showcasing charitable organizations and inviting them to participate in the We Care Wednesday program. This collaboration was a powerful platform to raise awareness and vital funds for the Crisis Centre. Through the generous partial proceeds from ticket sales, the community rallied behind the cause, demonstrating their collective support for mental health initiatives.
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Check out some of our photos from the event and the Crisis Centre ad that played on the jumbotron before the game!
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If you or someone you know is in crisis or considering suicide, please reach out:
- Anywhere in BC 1800SUICIDE: 1-800-784-2433
- Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 (no area code required)