REGINA — The More Joy Movement delivered measurable mental health support in Regina, raising more than $2,000 and connecting hundreds of people directly with care, resources and community.
The event, held at the Conexus Arts Centre, drew approximately 250 attendees, many through free registrations made possible by donors and the More Joy Movement to ensure cost was not a barrier. Organizers say the event is expensive to host, with much of the funding reinvested back into making the night accessible.
Proceeds will fund counselling for two individuals and help subsidize year-round animal therapy for an eight-year-old through Wild Blue Psychology.
Founded in 2019 by Regina journalist Christalee Froese, the More Joy Movement grew out of her lived experience with mental illness and the challenge many face accessing help, not because resources are unavailable, but because anxiety and depression make reaching out difficult.
“What More Joy does is bring everything into one place,” Froese said. “Depression and anxiety isolate people. When you remove barriers and show people they’re not alone, that’s where healing starts.”
The event functioned as a one-stop hub, featuring provincial mental health organizations offering direct access to grief support, addiction family services, peer recovery programs and cognitive behavioural therapy options.
“Often people are scared to connect,” Froese said. “And it all came together beautifully.”
The evening also featured a keynote address by local reporter Brit Dort, who spoke openly about her experience with anxiety, and a moderated discussion between Froese and psychiatrist Dr. Omosade Ogundare, focused on practical tools for mental wellness and breaking down barriers to care.
Music played a central role, with Saskatchewan musician JJ Voss performing, including a brand-new song written specifically for the event and performed live for the first time.
“It was nerve-wracking,” Voss said after the performance. “But it felt great. This is what community is about, creating spaces where people can be vulnerable and talk.”
Voss said debuting the song in front of an audience was a positive moment.
“I think the crowd got it,” he said. “I’ll take that as a win.”
Attendees were also welcomed by therapy dogs from St. John Ambulance, a quieter puppy room hosted by Bright Eyes Dog Rescue, and the night ended with a flash mob led by Rider cheerleader Lily Kary, designed to leave the crowd on an uplifting note.
The More Joy Movement operates without government funding, relying on community support. Previous events have helped fund counselling for people without workplace benefits and supported organizations such as the Canadian Mental Health Association.
Organizers say the success of the Regina event reinforces the need for accessible, stigma-free spaces where mental health conversations turn into action.
Watch our SaskToday highlights videos from the event.
