Founder of “Always Find a Reason to Smile”, Casey Szmata has been recognized by Peace River School Division; being awarded with the “Friends of Education Award Nominee”. PRSD describes the Friends of Education Award as; to recognize individuals or groups who have made a special contribution to education, student learning and well-being. Szmata goes around to schools in the region every year talking about suicide prevention and awareness, as well as her own story and struggles.
Szmata was presented with the award Wednesday afternoon by PRSD Ward Five Trustee Lori Leitch that says “Our board is very passionate about advocating and supporting our student’s mental health and wellness”.
Szmata has done an outstanding amount of work in schools across the region by doing suicide awareness presentations, providing suicide awareness lunches and in every PRSD school put inspirational stickers in washrooms to let those who are struggling to know they are not alone.
“I’m so honoured that they took the time and thought of me, and award me. It’s humbling but what it boils down to it’s about awareness, I hope it prompts conversation.” said Szmata. She noted it was a battle four or five years ago to get into schools to talk, but now they realize talking to younger kids now will benefit them more as they move into their teenage years.
If you want more information about Casey’s organization “Always Find a Reason to Smile” click here.
Photo: (Left to right): Casey Szmata and Lori Leitch, Ward Five Trustee
-Erika Rolling, Trending 55 Newsroom
