The Cochrane Rotary Club has partnered with Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) to launch a new “Pathway to Mental Health” initiative.
On Thursday, Rotarians joined Douw Vorster, FCSS community development worker for mental health, to install signs along approximately one-kilometre sections of the Riverfront Park and Glenbow trail systems. The signs share mental wellness tips, uplifting messages and resources to encourage self-care while enjoying time outdoors.
Additional signs are being installed along the pathway near the former Griffin Barn site, which is currently under redevelopment near the Bow River.
Unlike the past two years, when the signage was limited to a small stretch through Riverfront Park, this year’s signs will remain up until the end of June. If well received by residents and town council, organizers hope the signs could become a permanent fixture.
FCSS coordinator Chairra Nicolle said the initiative began modestly, but gained traction last year when signage was expanded to the area near the disc golf course.
“It was a way to engage differently with individuals who may not participate in sports, yoga or planting,” said Nicolle. “How do we connect with people in Cochrane who use nature as their way of caring for their mental health?”
The goal, she said, is to pursue permanent signage with interchangeable messages to reinforce that mental well-being is a year-round pursuit.
“The reason for permanent signage is to encourage conversation about mental health more than just one week per year,” said Kim Krawec, FCSS manager. “One of our goals is to reduce stigma and help people think about mental health positively — and normalize those conversations.”
Vorster said organizers are already looking at ways to involve different groups in designing future signage.
“For example, Glenbow School is initially interested in having their Grade 4 students design a set of signs as a class project,” he said. “Four months later, maybe Seniors for Kids could do another set. We want to engage different voices on what mental health looks and feels like for them.”
Martin Parnell, a past district governor for Rotary District 5360, also known to many as The Marathon Man, is leading the charge for the club. He said he was inspired after seeing last year’s temporary signs.
“I was walking the pathway and thought, ‘This is brilliant — enjoy the outdoors, take time for yourself,’” he said. “I thought maybe we could have a permanent display along a section of the trail.”
Organizers are strongly encouraging residents to provide feedback. QR codes have been placed on the first and last signs of each trail section, linking to a short survey. Those who complete the survey will be entered in a draw for gift cards.
Mental Health Week activities run through May 11 and feature the most extensive lineup yet — including drum circles, discussion panels, free fitness classes, community lunches, relaxing fishing and gardening outings, and parent-toddler programs.
One highlight of the week is The Masks We Wear, an original theatre production written, produced and performed by youth with Sleeping Giants Theatre. It runs Saturday, May 10, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Cochrane RancheHouse Theatre, and explores the power of storytelling in mental health awareness.
A full list of Mental Health Week activities is available here.
While the campaign draws attention to the importance of mental well-being, organizers emphasize that mental health is a year-round focus. Cochrane FCSS, alongside community partners, continues to champion initiatives throughout the year.
The local website cochranecares.ca offers access to mental health supports, self-care tools and stories from the community — a hub for those seeking help, supporting others, or simply wanting to learn more.
