“Mental illness was considered a weakness in character.”
– Ahlay Chin, Founder
The CMWAC is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, providing support to those suffering from mental health challenges, and destigmatizing the subject as a whole in our community. We believe everyone deserves access to support and are committed to building a highly compassionate and inclusive community, right here in Richmond.
OUR HISTORY
In 1995, CMWAC was established by our late founder, Ahlay Chin, to break the stigma surrounding mental illness in the Chinese-Canadian community after a tragic murder-suicide underscored the urgent need for greater awareness, education, and support.
What the community needed was education about the topic of mental illness and treatment options accessible to them, particularly in Chinese. Originally known as the Chinese Mental Wellness Association of Canada, the CMWAC has since then expanded its mission to promote mental wellness and empower communities of all backgrounds through education, programs, and counselling services.
1995 年
CMWAC Established
机构成立
1. The association’s bylaws were formulated, and the first council was elected.
2. The first training course was held.
1998 年
First Council Meeting
第一次理事会
1. Amended the association’s bylaws and elect two new directors to the association’s board of directors.
2. Publishing Association Journals.
3. Hosted a fundraising dinner.
1999 年
CMWAC Outreach
組織拓展
1. Held the third council meeting.
2. Visited senior living facilities in Vancouver to learn about mental health issues among seniors.
2023 年
King Charles III Coronation Award
查理三世國王加冕獎
The late founder Ahlay Chin was awarded for her contributions to the community.