Hopewell Eating Disorder Support Centre offers services and support to those who struggle with an eating disorder and to the family and friends who walk with them on their long and difficult recovery journey. This includes three unique support groups, offered in eight-week sessions throughout the year:

• a closed group for individuals who are new to recovery or who may need a more structured setting;
• an open group for individuals who are more established in their recovery;
• an open group for friends and family members.

Hopewell also offers a mentoring program, where a mentor who has been successfully recovered for over three years meets one-on-one with a mentee who may benefit from help when adjusting to life after treatment. Equally important, Hopewell provides a vital outreach and education function, to try to prevent these deadly diseases from developing in the first place. Hopewell partners with schools and community organizations to talk to youth about media literacy, positive body image and self-esteem and mental well-being. These messages are essential for young people to receive, since many face constant bombardment over social media with images and messages telling them they just don’t measure up – whether that be in appearance, social status or otherwise.

Info at-a-glance

Year founded
1999

Total budget for last fiscal year
$160,000

Geographic region of focus

Eastern Ontario, with the vast majority of work being undertaken in the National Capital Region

Donation wish list

• Design and production of professional display unit for Hopewell participation at information and trade fairs
• Purchase and installation of new computers for three staff members
• Design and printing of updated Hopewell information and marketing materials

How you can help

Hopewell relies almost exclusively on the generosity of individuals and organizations in our community to keep fighting against these illnesses, which are the most fatal of all mental health diagnoses. Hopewell’s community based supports and services are vital in assisting those who must navigate the complex mental and physical healthcare system and yet Hopewell does not receive funding from any level of government.

In the coming years, Hopewell is interested in exploring the feasibility of leveraging new technologies to provide on-line support for individuals who are struggling with an eating disorder.

Volunteer

Hopewell volunteers are mostly involved with their community outreach and education initiatives, which can entail staffing their display at information fairs or delivering presentations to schools and local organizations.

Hopewell also relies on volunteers to facilitate their support groups, before which Hopewell provides them with training so they are fully equipped to protect the health and well-being of their clients. These volunteers are usually in their final year of a graduate program in social work or psychology.

Get in touch

Hopewell
404 McArthur Avenue
Ottawa, Ontario
K1K 1G8

Phone: 613-241-3428
Email: info@hopewell.ca
Website: www.hopewell.ca
Twitter: @HopewellOttawa
Facebook: HopewellOttawa

 Article written by Chriss Holloway, Association of Faculties of Medicine 

Article edited by Darlene Kelly-Stewart, Stonehouse Sales & Marketing Services