The 2027 Canada Games, Youth in Mind Foundation and the Aléo Research Chair announced today a new partnership aimed at supporting the mental health and well-being of young athletes before, during and after the Games, taking place in Québec City from February 27 to March 14, 2027.
United by a shared commitment to fostering a positive and balanced sporting journey, the partners will combine their expertise in prevention, psychosocial support and the organization of major sporting events. Through awareness, prevention and support initiatives, as well as a joint presence in the Balance Zone at the Athletes Village of the 2027 Canada Games, this partnership aims to strengthen the support network surrounding young athletes and promote an environment where well-being, personal development and performance can thrive together.
An Innovative Partnership with a Lasting Impact
This innovative partnership aims to make the mental health and well-being of young athletes a priority before, during and after the 2027 Canada Games.
Before the event, the three organizations will join forces to develop mental preparation resources and awareness initiatives for young athletes and those around them. These resources, which will take various forms on websites and social media, will aim to provide guidance and tools to support young athletes throughout the different stages of their participation in the Games or other sporting events.
During the event, Youth in Mind Foundation and the Aléo Research Chair will contribute to activities in the Balance Zone, a specially designed space at the Athletes Village, dedicated to promoting participants' mental and physical well-being. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., this space will provide athletes with an environment conducive to relaxation, rejuvenation and recovery. It will feature three distinct areas: a recharge area offering virtual reality meditation and relaxation experiences, as well as sensory tools; a creativity and relaxation area featuring activities such as reading, colouring and puzzles; and a physical recovery area equipped with specialized devices and yoga mats.
Beyond the Games, this collaboration aims to leave a lasting legacy by improving access to tools and knowledge that will continue to support young athletes from Québec and across Canada throughout their sporting journeys.
“Young athletes navigate an environment shaped by personal challenges, expectations, performance pressure and the many changes that come with adolescence. By joining forces with the 2027 Canada Games and the Aléo Research Chair, we hope to help strengthen the support network surrounding young athletes so they can benefit from healthy guidance and develop skills through sport that will serve them in all aspects of their lives.”
- Mélanie Boucher, President and CEO, Youth in Mind Foundation
“The 2027 Canada Games aim to provide a memorable and positive experience for all participants. This partnership reflects our commitment to placing the well-being of young athletes at the heart of that experience. By collaborating with Youth in Mind Foundation and the Aléo Research Chair, we are helping create an environment where young people can find support, resources and guidance that will benefit them long after the Games are over.”
- Marie-Hélène St-Onge, CEO, 2027 Canada Games Host Society
GIVE MOMENTUM: A Philanthropic Movement Supporting the Next Generation of Athletes
This partnership with Youth in Mind Foundation has been made possible thanks to the commitment of individuals and organizations supporting the 2027 Canada Games' GIVE MOMENTUM philanthropic campaign. This collective effort enables the implementation of initiatives that foster the overall development of young athletes, with a strong emphasis on their mental health and well-being. You too can contribute to building a positive and lasting sporting legacy for the next generation.
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