Collaborative Partnerships
Making a difference for those who make a difference
With the increased demands on non-profit organizations, it's more important than ever for social sector workers to make time for their own mental health.
Research commissioned by GreenShield and ATB Financial, conducted by Mental Health Research Canada, highlighted the mental health challenges faced by Albertans in the charitable sector. The findings reveal that the economic downturn is affecting employee well-being, with 41 per cent reporting negative impacts on their mental health.
“We have people with higher needs trying to find a way to get more support when there's less available,” says Lori James, the executive director at Making Changes Association, which provides women and girls with resources to pursue education and careers.
James says the increased demand means that they can’t always help individuals looking for support when they need it, and the emotional labour that can come with that impacts the organization’s staff. “It becomes a really heavy lift for the team, and that doesn't even account for whatever they're dealing with in their personal life.”
In 2024, GreenShield partnered with our client ATB Financial to support Albertans on the front lines of social change with free mental health services. Virtual therapy, internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and peer-to-peer support are all accessible anytime and anywhere through GreenShield+ to social sector employees working at organizations that are ATB Financial grant recipients.
Shannon Johansen, executive director of Highbanks Society, which helps unsupported mothers vulnerable to the cycle of poverty and homelessness, says that the organization gets about 20 per cent of its funding from the government and the rest from private fundraising. Because of the ATB Financial and GreenShield partnership, Highbanks Society is able to offer mental health support to its employees for the first time.
“They're so dedicated to their work and what they do with these young moms that they will prioritize that above their own well-being,” says Johansen, who encourages her team to take time to focus on their mental health by organizing group self-care activities and team-building exercises.
Like Johansen, James recognizes a successful organization starts with the well-being of the staff. “Your success is one hundred per cent connected to your people, and if your people aren't healthy on all levels, your organization isn't healthy.”
By investing in the mental health and well-being of social sector employees with GreenShield, we are not only supporting these incredible individuals but also reinforcing the foundation of a stronger, more compassionate Alberta.
