Rolling Hills School hosted a transformative mental health and wellness event for junior high students, thanks to the generous support of a grant from 500 Miles for Mental Health. This initiative brought together students from Rolling Hills, Tilley, and Alcoma schools, fostering meaningful connections and equipping youth with tools to support their mental well-being.
A Vision for Empowerment
The day began with an inspiring keynote from Trina Colpitts, founder of 500 Miles for Mental Health. Trina shared her powerful vision: empowering students to take charge of their mental health through connection, physical activity, and self-awareness. Her message set a hopeful and energizing tone, reminding students that they hold the power to shape their own wellness journeys.
Building Bonds Through Play
Led by Rolling Hills’ Mental Health Capacity Building Team, Tia and Emma, students participated in icebreaker games designed to spark laughter and connection. These activities helped students step out of their comfort zones and build new friendships across schools, laying the foundation for a day of shared experiences.
Breakout Sessions for Mind and Body
Students then chose from a variety of breakout sessions tailored to their interests:
- Pickleball – Fast-paced fun and teamwork
- Cooking – Practical skills and creativity
- Art – A calming space for self-expression
- Wrestling – Physical engagement and discipline
These sessions offered a balanced mix of movement and mindfulness, giving students tangible ways to care for both their bodies and minds.
Sharing a Meal, Sharing Stories
A delicious lunch from Pizza Hut provided a relaxed setting for students to continue building connections. Over shared slices and stories, the sense of community grew stronger.
Stories of Resilience
The afternoon featured two unforgettable guest speakers whose stories of perseverance left a lasting impact:
- Ryan Straschnitzki, survivor of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash, shared his journey of resilience and determination. Now training to represent Canada in wheelchair basketball, Ryan’s story inspired students to embrace a growth mindset and never give up.
- Jenn Oakes, three-time Paralympic sitting volleyball athlete, spoke about overcoming the loss of her leg in a boating accident just before Grade 12. Her unwavering positivity and passion for sport led her to a bronze medal at the Paris Games, showing students the power of perseverance and purpose.
A Lasting Impact
By the end of the day, students left Rolling Hills School feeling uplifted, connected, and empowered. The event provided not only practical strategies for mental wellness but also unforgettable stories of human strength and resilience. Principal Mike Flieger expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made the day possible.
