Photo: Parry Sound—Muskoka MP Scott Aitchison (centre) pauses for a photo announcing the donation. Holding the “cheque” on either side of Aitchison are MiNd-Aid Board Chair James Bowler (left) and MiNd-Aid Board member Scott Morrison (right).
Parry Sound—Muskoka MP Scott Aitchison has presented a $20,000 donation to MiND-AID Parry Sound-Muskoka, with funds raised through his annual Scotty Charity Golf Tournament.
The contribution, generated directly from proceeds of the tournament, will help support MiND-AID’s youth mental health navigation services and programs across the Parry Sound-Muskoka region.
MiND-AID is a grassroots organization that helps young people connect with mental health supports, navigation services, and emergency resources. Through advocacy and community fundraising efforts, the organization works to reduce stigma and improve access to mental health care for youth.
The annual Scotty Charity Golf Tournament is supported by local sponsors, volunteers, organizers, and participants, and continues its mission of investing in community well-being and strengthening local support networks.
“The generosity of our community never ceases to amaze me,” said Aitchison. “The Scotty was built on the principle of neighbours helping neighbours, and there is no cause more critical right now than supporting the mental health of our young people. MiND-AID does incredible, life-saving work in Parry Sound-Muskoka, and I am thrilled that the funds raised by this year’s tournament will support their mission through this $20,000 contribution.”
Aitchison said the tournament has a dual purpose: providing immediate support to organizations addressing urgent community needs while also building a long-term charitable legacy.
“The Scotty raises a significant amount of money every year,” he said. “We’re generating enough money to build an endowment so that, long after I’m gone, it continues to support organizations through the Parry Sound-Muskoka Community Fund. At the same time, we’re very aware of urgent needs, particularly with organizations like MiND-AID that are doing critically important work helping young people navigate a confusing mental health system and access the supports they need. I’m proud to support the work of Jody North and her team and help ensure resources reach young people who need them.”
MiND-AID Board Chair James Bowler said the donation demonstrates the importance of community support, particularly as the organization relies entirely on fundraising and donations.
“This is a great example of community helping community, and we really need that in this day and age,” said Bowler. “MiND-AID doesn’t receive government funding. We rely on community donations to do what we do. Without organizations like ours, navigating the mental health system can be a real labyrinth for young people and their families.”
Executive Director Jody North said the donation will make a meaningful difference for youth seeking mental health support.
“We are profoundly grateful to MP Scott Aitchison, the event sponsors, and everyone who took part in The Scotty,” said North. “This $20,000 contribution, made possible through the tournament’s success, will help ensure more young people across our region can access the mental health navigation services and resources they need to thrive. Community support like this truly saves lives.”
Established by Aitchison, The Scotty Charity Golf Tournament is held annually in partnership with the Parry Sound-Muskoka Community Fund and the Muskoka Community Foundation. Tournament proceeds support regional organizations focused on health care, youth services, education, recreation, and other community priorities.
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