Calgary is home to Alberta’s first mental health park

A new park has opened in the heart of Calgary with the purpose of supporting mental health. Located outside of The Summit: Marian & Jim Sinneave Centre for Youth Resilience, the park will be a place where Calgarians can connect in a safe space. It is Alberta’s first public mental health park and it came to fruition with the help of generous donors. We caught up with Parks Foundation CEO Shelia Taylor to chat about the park and what it means for Calgarians.

What was the idea behind building the Brawn Family Foundation Rotary Park?

The vision for the Brawn Family Foundation Rotary Park was to create an innovative, new park that would serve as a sanctuary in the heart of Calgary. The park will support community, family, youth, health, and wellbeing. Brawn Family Foundation Rotary Park is located just steps from The Summit: Marian & Jim Sinneave Centre for Youth Resilience, Calgary’s first community-based mental health centre for young people.

How will the park promote mental health and well-being in the city?

Research shows there is a direct link between nature and positive mental health, and the park is an essential place for families and kids who are receiving vital services and health support at The Summit. Brawn Family Foundation Rotary Park will be a space where Calgarians find solace, connection, and healing in an outdoor environment.

How do the park's features help young people reflect, heal, and connect with nature?

As Alberta’s first public mental health park, Brawn’s features were chosen to promote positive mental health and well-being. Some of the unique park features include a climbing structure, sport court, meditation space and more. Park users may be able to connect with other families and individuals experiencing the same challenges they are and find a safe, supportive safe to heal. Calgarians are invited to learn more at parksfdn.com/brawn.

Do you have any plans to build similar mental health parks in the future?

Parks Foundation depends on the generosity of donors and funders to create new parks. We are continually assessing what outdoor and green spaces our city needs to become a healthier, more vibrant place to live, as well as contributors who will help make these projects happen.