A fundraising event for mental health support will take place on Sept 23rd in memory of Ben Kindree, who died by suicide in October of 2020. His mother, Leah Kindree, with some help from her husband Wayne Donison is organizing the event called Paddle for Benny, which will include a paddle and raft trip down the Lower Madawaska River, followed by food, music and a raffle at Paddler Co-op. myFM spoke with Donison who talked more on the motivations and start of Paddle for Benny
Leah Kindree hopes to raise awareness and funds for the Robbie Dean Counselling Centre, a non-profit organization that offers free mental health services to residents of Renfrew County. She says her son struggled with mental illness for more than 20 years and did not receive adequate help.
The event will also feature a water ceremony by Joanne Haskins, a speech by Ryan O’Connor on the power of community, and live music by the Valley Cats. Donations can be made online at https://www.kwpclub.ca/events/paddle-for-benny or at the event.
Those who wish to participate in the paddle or raft trip need to register in advance by calling Paddler Co-op at 613-758-2772. Camping is also available at the site.
(Written by Luke Notman)