Remembering Danforth by getting connected face to face.

A few days ago was the one-year anniversary of the terrible shooting along the Danforth in Toronto. We should all be heartened by the efforts of the community to come together, face to face, to comfort, support and strengthen the community bonds for Greek Town and the broader city. Everyone copes with tragedy in a different way, but one thing is clear, that having people around to talk with, share ideas and find solutions on how one might move forward after a tragedy is an important part of the healing process for those going through the crisis and for those who care about them.

As we remember those affected by the Danforth shooting, let’s remember that there are people each day in Toronto and across Canada that are dealing with their own personal crisis, whatever it is. Each crisis, for that individual, may be the largest one that they have faced to date and except for the fortunate few, they likely don’t have the benefit of hordes of people coming by to say hello, drop off a card or to let them know they are being thought about.

During times of crisis people often pull back from their normal routines and habits. Whether it is because they feel they will be judged, that they won’t be able to compete with the highlight reel lives that many share on social or maybe because the crisis has them unable to get outside physically. Yet, it is at these moments that we need human connection and support the most.

The GenWell Project is a human connection movement that wants to remind people about the importance of human connection in our lives. Human connection can reduce anxiety and depression, strengthen our immune systems, build empathy and compassion, stregthen our resilience and the conversations can put context around the challenges that any of us may face. Our hope is to inspire people to create those healthy connection habits before the next crisis should hit, whether personally or as a community. If it isn’t you next time, maybe the bonds that you have created will be for someone you love or care about.

Make The GenWell Project your catalyst this September 20, 21 and 22, when everyone is back from summer travels and excursions, to build your support network by getting to know the people closest to you emotionally or physical. Family, friends, neighbours or colleagues. These are the people that are most likely to be there for you in a crisis so let’s get started today in building those healthy connection habits that can help us all through the challenging times that we all face as we head through this journey of life.

Stay connected.