Grey Bruce Community Pushes Walk for Courage to $50,000 in Inspiring Show of Support

Jul 29, 2026

Sometimes the most memorable moments aren’t planned.

As volunteers prepared for the final cheque presentation at the conclusion of the 5th Annual Walk for Courage on Saturday, July 25, organizers announced the campaign had raised $49,248 through online fundraising, event-day donations, T-shirt sales, and the online auction.

Then something unexpected happened.

Seeing the total just shy of the $50,000 milestone, Josh Burnett, owner of Owen Sound Fitness & Training and a Site Sponsor of the event, stepped forward with an additional donation that brought the campaign to an even $50,000. The spontaneous gesture drew cheers from participants, volunteers, and supporters, perfectly capturing the generosity and community spirit that have defined the Walk for Courage since it began.

More than 160 participants gathered at Owen Sound Fitness & Training and Sulphur Spring Conservation Area in Hanover, while many more took part virtually from their own communities. Together, they walked in support of mental health, hope, and suicide prevention across Grey Bruce.

Created in memory of Jeff Courage, the Walk for Courage was founded by Greg and Tawnia Courage to encourage open conversations about mental health and suicide while raising funds for local education and suicide prevention initiatives. Five years later, that vision continues to grow.

This year marked the fifth anniversary of the Owen Sound walk. During the opening ceremonies, MP Alex Ruff presented Greg and Tawnia Courage with a commemorative certificate recognizing the milestone. In his remarks, he noted that many community events don’t continue beyond a couple of years and praised the Walk for Courage for becoming a lasting tradition that continues to make a meaningful difference across Grey Bruce.

Participants also heard remarks from MPP Paul Vickers, Owen Sound Mayor Ian Boddy, and Hanover Mayor Sue Paterson, each highlighting the importance of supporting mental health and encouraging people to reach out when they need help.

Hanover also celebrated its second Walk for Courage, building on last year’s success with increased participation, growing community support, and greater visibility throughout the area.

Throughout the day, CMHA Grey Bruce counselling staff were available at both locations to connect participants and families with local supports and answer questions about available services. Jackie Ralph, CMHA Grey Bruce’s Suicide Awareness Coordinator, also shared information about suicide prevention education and training opportunities available throughout Grey Bruce.

“Of course the funds matter because they allow us to bring more suicide prevention education and mental health awareness into communities across Grey Bruce,” said Ralph. “But when I think back on the day, what stays with me are the conversations. People shared stories they may never have shared before. Friends checked in with one another. Families remembered loved ones together. Those moments remind us why we walk. Every conversation helps break down stigma and lets someone know they don’t have to face life’s challenges alone.”

This year, Joan Scobie, was the Top Individual Fundraiser in Owen Sound, and Lynda Legge, earned the title of Top Individual Fundraiser in Hanover.

This year’s Top Fundraising Team went to Team Courage in Owen Sound and Team Tiger’s Tails in Hanover. Their dedication and commitment inspired friends, family, and community members to come together in support of mental health.

Support for the Walk for Courage extended well beyond the walking routes. This year’s online auction, the largest in the event’s history, raised nearly $7,000, thanks to the generosity of local businesses and enthusiastic bidders from across the region.

Funds raised through the Walk for Courage support CMHA Grey Bruce’s local mental health education and suicide prevention initiatives, helping build awareness, reduce stigma, and equip people with the knowledge and confidence to support someone who may be struggling.

Although this year’s walk has concluded, the campaign remains open, and donations are still being accepted.

Planning is already underway for the 2027 Walk for Courage, with organizers hopeful of adding a third walk location to make it even easier for people across Grey Bruce to participate.

Every conversation starts with one person willing to speak. Every movement begins with one step. Thanks to the people of Grey Bruce, the Walk for Courage continues to do both.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

The success of the 2026 Walk for Courage would not have been possible without the incredible support of our sponsors.

CMHA Grey Bruce gratefully acknowledges the generosity of every sponsor, donor, volunteer, auction donor, participant, and community partner whose support made the 2026 Walk for Courage possible.