Vision Awards Recognize Leaders in Mental Wellness

July 8, 2026

At this year’s Annual General Meeting, the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia presented its Vision Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations whose meaningful contributions are helping improve mental wellness for all Nova Scotians.

Members of the Canadian Progress Club Halifax Citadel with Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia President & CEO Starr Cunningham and Board Chair Morgan Manzer

Outstanding Volunteer Award: Canadian Progress Club Halifax Citadel

The Canadian Progress Club Halifax Citadel received the Outstanding Volunteer Award for its longstanding commitment to the Foundation.

From welcoming guests and selling raffle tickets to supporting fundraising campaigns, decorating Smile Cookies, and assisting behind the scenes, club members consistently answer the call for support. Their dedication has contributed countless volunteer hours in support of mental health initiatives across Nova Scotia.

Dave O’Connor, President of Glow with Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia President & CEO Starr Cunningham and Board Chair Morgan Manzer

Partners in Our Vision Award: Glow, the Event Store

Glow, the Event Store received the Partners in Our Vision Award in recognition of more than a decade of partnership with the Foundation.

Under the leadership of Dave O’Connor, Glow has supported the Foundation through event sponsorships, auction donations, and creative event experiences. This past year, Glow selected the Foundation as the charity of choice for both its Event Industry Speakeasy Night and Glow Gardens initiatives, raising thousands of dollars to support mental health programs across the province.

Members of the Kehoe family with Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia President & CEO Starr Cunningham and Board Chair Morgan Manzer

Outstanding Achievement Award: The Kehoe Family

The Outstanding Achievement Award was presented to the Kehoe Family for establishing the Catlin Kehoe Memorial Grant for Mental Health Support.

Following the sudden loss of their son and brother, Catlin Kehoe, in 2024, the family transformed grief into action by creating a lasting legacy that supports mental health services in their community.

To date, the fund has raised more than $31,000 through the generosity of family, friends, and the Isle Madame community. Funding has already supported Forging Forward Counselling Services and Pathways to Employment’s Peer Navigator and Mindfulness Mentor initiative, helping connect people in Cape Breton with mental health support. As the fund continues to grow, Catlin’s legacy will continue supporting mental wellness in the community for years to come.

The Foundation congratulates all three recipients and thanks them for their leadership, generosity, and commitment to building stronger, more compassionate communities across Nova Scotia.

Click here to read the full 2025-2026 Community Report.

Photo credit: Stoo Metz Photography