A new award established in Port Coquitlam teen Amanda Todd's memory will support three Tri-City students enrolled in the Child and Youth Care program at Douglas College.
The Amanda Todd Legacy Award is a partnership between the Amanda Todd Legacy fund and the Douglas College Foundation, which have agreed to each contribute $1,000 for four years as well as the four Tri-City Rotary Clubs which will contribute donations of $250 each.
Each recipient will receive $1,000 towards their studies.
It will honor Todd, whose tragic story made waves around the world after she took her own life on Oct 10, 2012, after posting a video about her experiences with bullying, and whose death coincides with World Mental Health Day.
“We want to draw attention and awareness in the community and want people to be able to ask themselves, ‘what can I do to help?’” stated Ron Goyette, president of the Rotary Club of Port Coquitlam Centennial in a press release. “Mental wellness is a great concern in our communities, affecting many people — particularly youth.”
Hazel Postma, Douglas College vice-president of advancement and alumni relations, agreed the award should promote discussion and help end the stigma around mental health concerns.
