We are excited to announce our partnership with the RBC Foundation in support of RBC Future Launch to better support 2SLGBTQIA+ youth waiting for mental health supports from Friends of Ruby.   

Mental health challenges are common for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, specifically those with complex intersecting identities.  

The pandemic intensified this reality for youth, who have been coping with the stress and anxiety of social isolation or living in non-affirming spaces. As youth return to their pre-pandemic lives, added stresses include reentering spaces where they might encounter discrimination and harassment or overcome social anxiety.  

These challenges impact youth’s ability to stay in school, find and keep employment, and sustain stable housing – all factors related to alleviating poverty. 

funding from RBC Foundation in support of RBC Future Launch, is enabling Friends of Ruby to Test Solutions Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), which allows youth faster access to the mental health supports they need to build resilience to face current and future challenges they may face.  

“Our commitment to youth mental well-being is focused on prevention and early intervention programs that help provide young people timely access to knowledge, supports and care, when and where they need it,” said Mark Beckles, Vice President, Social Impact & Innovation, RBC. 

 “Through our partnership with Friends of Ruby, RBC Future Launch will help address the barriers often faced by young people when trying to access the supports they need.”