We Remember Andre - World Suicide Prevention Day

The Andre Courtemanche Mental Health Society was founded in Langford, BC, to honour the life of Andre Courtemanche, who at just 16 left us too soon after a struggle with anxiety and depression. His story reminds us of both the challenges too many families face and the hope that comes from turning grief into action.

Across British Columbia, youth and families continue to face long wait times, limited resources, and the heavy weight of stigma. While awareness has grown, awareness alone is not enough. Families and young people need more than conversation — they need connection, support, and meaningful opportunities for resilience.

Our Society was created to move beyond words and into compassionate, practical action. Guided by Andre’s memory, we work to ensure that no family feels alone in their journey and that every young person has access to hope and help when they need it.

Our initiatives include:

The Andre Courtemanche Scholarship Fund — supporting students and young leaders who are breaking stigma and building awareness in their communities.

The Annual Walk for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness — uniting families, survivors, and allies in Langford to stand together in solidarity and remembrance.

Family and Survivor Support — offering safe, understanding spaces for families navigating mental health challenges or suicide loss.

Partnership-Driven Programs — collaborating with schools, Indigenous Nations, local governments, and community organizations to make support more accessible.

We are here to strengthen community connections, and ensure families are not left to face these struggles alone.

Our vision is a future where mental health is treated with the same openness as physical health, where families find support rather than barriers, and where no young life is lost to silence or stigma.