Read more about pin artist Aurora Moore
WEAR YOUR COMPASSION ON YOUR SLEEVE…..OR LAPEL.
Whistler Community Services Society and Arts Whistler have partnered for ReachOut! Whistler – a campaign to raise awareness and funds for mental health and wellbeing programs with the help of a beautiful locally designed enamel pin.
The ReachOut! Whistler pin uses the iconic image of Black Tusk to remind folks that no one needs to stand alone. 2020 was an exceptionally challenging year and Whistler Community Services’ Outreach program has experienced a significant increase in individuals seeking assistance in the areas of mental health and emotional support. Similarly, throughout the pandemic, Arts Whistler saw an increased need for accessible and inclusive arts and culture activities that could help foster community spirit and belonging in a year of filled with uncertainty and stress. Arts Whistler executive director Mo Douglas shared, “Creativity and participation in the arts is a proven pathway for better mental health and community connection. The ReachOut! pins will help us build community awareness and enable pin wearers to identify themselves as compassionate supporters. The funds from pin sales will support future community arts initiatives.”
Jackie Dickinson, Whistler Community Services Society’s executive director, stated, “Whistler Community Services Society is proud and honored to be part of this powerful collaboration with Arts Whistler. The goal of this initiative is to create hope and resiliency as we start 2021 and raise awareness around mental health and the strength of accessing support.
WCSS provides low-barrier, free, confidential support to anyone in the community who is looking to add more tools to support their well-being, health and their family systems.” Jackie sees another important facet to the campaign. “The Reach Out! Whistler pin will raise awareness but we also
hope wearing the pin will challenge the stigma associated with talking about mental health and provide a visual reminder to our community and friend circles that we are an ally, that we are willing to talk about our mental health and support those around us. As a community when we support one another and take care of ourselves we build capacity to continue to be a healthy supportive community.”
After receiving dozens of impressive design submissions from local artists, Pemberton artist Aurora Moore’s bold design was selected, as it beautifully captures the spirit of the campaign. It is now being transformed into a limited edition enamel pin. “Having other people to lean on and talk to is at the heart of mental wellness for me. I used Black Tusk to represent this
thought – ‘You don’t have to stand alone’ – as Black Tusk stands out in the Coast Mountain range”, says Aurora about her design.
Pins are available for purchase in person at the Maury Young Arts Centre and the Re-Use It, but supplies are limited.