In recognition of Let’s Talk Day – January 21
Mental health is something that touches all of us – whether through our own experiences, those we love, or the people we work alongside every day. As Let’s Talk Day approaches on January 21, Federated Health Charities is proud to highlight the incredible work of one of the 21 health organizations we support: the Institute for Advancements in Mental Health (IAM).
IAM is dedicated to walking alongside people who are navigating mental health challenges, as well as the caregivers who support them. Their work is grounded in compassion, dignity, and the belief that every person’s journey is unique.
A Place to Feel Heard and Understood
At its core, IAM provides emotional support during some of life’s most difficult moments. When individuals reach out – often overwhelmed, scared, or unsure where to begin – IAM’s trained professionals meet them with empathy and patience.
People who connect with IAM often describe the same feelings:
“I felt heard. I felt validated. I felt understood.”
And that’s exactly what IAM offers. Judgment-free space, compassionate listening, and support rooted in lived experience and deep expertise.
Navigating a Complex System, Together
Mental health care can be confusing and intimidating. The Institute for Advancements in Mental Health helps people find clear, practical guidance on how to navigate the mental health system, so they don’t have to figure it out alone.
Whether it’s understanding treatment options, accessing community supports, or knowing what questions to ask, IAM helps people move forward with confidence and clarity.
Honouring Caregivers and Their Critical Role
Behind every person struggling with a complex mental health condition, there is often someone quietly holding things together – a spouse, sibling, parent, friend, or family member acting as a caregiver.
IAM recognizes just how essential caregivers are. They also know caregiving can be exhausting, isolating, and emotional. That’s why they offer programs designed specifically for caregivers, including the one outlined below:
Strengthening Families Together
- One of IAM’s most meaningful programs, this series is facilitated by a caregiver with lived experience supporting a loved one with complex mental health challenges. Participants gain tools, knowledge, emotional support, and – perhaps most importantly – the reassurance that they are not alone.
Every Journey Is Different
IAM understands that there is no single “right way” to navigate mental health challenges. Each person’s path is shaped by their experiences, culture, family, community, and hopes for the future.
Their philosophy is simple: meet people where they are, walk beside them, and help them find their way forward.
Creating Community Through Conversation
IAM frequently hosts gatherings – both in-person and virtual – that bring people together for open conversations about mental health, recovery, and lived experience. These events offer connection, learning, and inspiration to everyone who attends.
Last year, IAM welcomed Ravi Sarin, who shared his powerful lived experience with schizophrenia. Ravi has built a meaningful career as a mental health peer support worker, helping people find the treatment and support they need to rebuild their lives. His story – one of resilience, strength, and generosity – is a reminder of why community matters.
Ravi’s parents, Marilyn and Dr. Michael Sarin, are longtime IAM supporters, volunteer facilitators, and passionate advocates for caregiver education. Their family’s dedication reflects the heart of IAM’s mission: supporting both individuals and the people who walk beside them.
A Stronger, Healthier Ontario Starts With Us
Since 1983, provincial employees across the Ontario Public Service, agencies, and the OPP have helped fund the work of organizations like IAM through Federated Health Charities.
IAM’s impact is felt every day through:
✔️ compassionate emotional support
✔️ caregiver education and empowerment
✔️ clear guidance on navigating the system
✔️ meaningful community events
✔️ lived-experience–led conversations
✔️ programs that strengthen families and futures
As we approach Let’s Talk Day, IAM’s message aligns perfectly with the spirit of the campaign:
Talk openly. Break down stigma. Support each other. And remember that no one should have to navigate mental health challenges alone.
You Make This Work Possible
Thanks to the generosity of Ontario’s provincial employees, Federated Health Charities has been supporting mental health organizations like IAM for more than 40 years. And in 2026, we are only a few hundred thousand dollars away from reaching a remarkable milestone – $60 million raised since our founding.
Every donation matters. Every conversation matters.
And every person deserves support, dignity, and hope.
