Who We Are
The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia is the province’s only health foundation dedicated exclusively to funding mental health and addictions support.
Working with donors and community partners, the Foundation invests in local programs designed by communities, for communities — mobilizing circles of support that reflect Nova Scotia’s unique people, cultures, and places. By listening first, the Foundation funds what communities need most, complementing clinical care, bridging system gaps, and supporting initiatives that build connection, resilience, and hope.
Our purpose and vision
Our purpose is to improve the mental wellness of Nova Scotians by granting funds to community-based mental health and addictions organizations
Our vision is for all Nova Scotians to be thriving in their communities.
Our Values
Community.
Connection, belonging and circles of support are fundamental to advancing mental wellness.
Compassion.
Kindness and understanding create nurturing and inclusive environments for growth, healing and recovery.
Accountability.
Responsibility, oversight, and care for the lived experiences, relationships, and funds entrusted to us.
Our Staff
Guided by values of hope, compassion, acceptance, innovation, and trust, this small yet mighty team brings a variety of skills and experience to the Foundation’s efforts to make a difference in the lives of Nova Scotians living with mental illness and addiction.
Our Board of Trustees
Our Board draws upon the expertise and insights of individuals from a variety of backgrounds, professions, and competencies. Trustees determine the Foundation’s strategic direction, provide oversight, insight, and foresight, enable growth and diversification of revenue, and seek sustainable giving opportunities.
Morgan Manzer, Chair
Nova Scotia Legal Aid
Lorna Griffin-Fillier, Vice Chair
Nova Scotia Health
Linda MacKay, Treasurer
NS Department of Advanced Education
Brian Himmelman
Himmelman & Associates Financial Advisors
Christy Breed Barkhouse
Down East Hospitality Inc/Tim Hortons
Paul Shirriff
CIBC
Kiersten Amos
McInnes Cooper
Jason Buchanan
Precision Hydraulics
Alisa Mesheau
RBC, Past Chair
Caroline Blair-Smith
Nova Scotia Power
Kim MacDonald
13 Factors for Business Growth
Bryan Rice
V.J. Rice Concrete Limited
Starr Cunningham
Ex officio
Careers
As part of an organization dedicated to improving mental health for all, every member of our team is united in this goal. We’re leaders in removing barriers to mental health and addiction supports and services. And we’re looking for people who are bold in their ambition to enable Nova Scotians living with mental illness and addiction to thrive.
Staff and volunteers experience a positive and supportive environment built on respect, inclusion, honesty, self-care, and a passion to affect positive change. We welcome and embrace individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and cultures.
All career opportunities will be posted on this career page and our LinkedIn profile.
Current Opportunities
Thank you for your interest! Opportunities will be posted here and on our LinkedIn page as they become available.
Thank You
Many of the photos on our website have been taken by our friend Stoo of Stoo Metz Photography, a longtime supporter of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia. We are grateful to them for sharing their talents with us.
Contact Us
Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia
Mount Hope Centre
1120-300 Pleasant Street
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
B2Y 3S3
Phone: 902.464.6000
Fax: 902.464.3001
Email: info@mentalhealthns.ca
Business Hours
Monday – Friday: 8:30-4:30
Closed: Saturday & Sunday
Media Inquiries:
info@mentalhealthns.ca
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PLEASE NOTE: If you are in crisis, please call Mental Health Mobile Crisis at 902.429.8167, 911, 988, or visit your local ER.
*The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia supports mental health and addictions programs across the province. Though we do not provide mental health services, we can help point you in the right direction for specific resources in your community.