2023 Make Some Noise for Mental Health Campaign

2023 ACAC Make Some Noise for Mental Health Campaign Marks Transition to Fall

Presented by The Royal Bank of Canada

Edmonton, AB (October 16, 2023) - The Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) is proud to announce the ninth annual ACAC Make Some Noise for Mental Health (MSN) campaign, presented by Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). This year, the campaign takes place from October 20 - November 26, 2023, marking a significant transition to the fall season after eight years of winter campaigns.

In continuity with previous years, the 2023 MSN campaign continues to empower change-makers across 17 member post-secondary institutions spanning two provinces. Since its inception in 2015, Make Some Noise for Mental Health has consistently demonstrated its significance on the ACAC calendar. This campaign unites student-athletes, coaches, member institution staff, and mental health leaders in 15 different ACAC communities throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan.

During the campaign period, ACAC member institutions will host dynamic MSN-dedicated game day events, employ various social media platforms to amplify mental health awareness, and work diligently to break down the stigma surrounding mental health challenges. Noteworthy features of the 2023 campaign include a renewed emphasis on student-athlete involvement in campaign planning, and a designated day known as 'The Blast,' scheduled for November 20, 2023. On this day, each institution will come together to actively share MSN content across their social media platforms, creating a powerful collective impact. 'The Blast' underscores the campaign's core message of 'Strength in Unity,' emphasizing the significance of positive mental health awareness and the imperative need to reduce stigma associated with mental health challenges.

ACAC CEO, Mark Kosak, reflected on the campaign, stating, “On behalf of the leadership of the ACAC and our member institutions, it’s once again gratifying to be supporting such an important social awareness cause that really resonates with our student-athletes. Thanks to RBC and their ongoing partnership, our student-athletes enjoy this opportunity to make a meaningful difference for anyone dealing with mental health challenges, no matter how big or small.”

Jeff Boyd, Regional President, RBC, Alberta and the Territories, added, “We are committed to supporting the mental well-being of Canadian youth and appreciate partnering with the ACAC for the past seven years on this important work,” says Jeff Boyd, Regional President, RBC, Alberta and the Territories. “The student advocacy during this campaign helps connect those who are impacted by mental illness with the support they need.”

In recognition of outstanding campaigns, two ACAC member institutions that have made the most significant contributions to mental health awareness will receive monetary awards. RBC will provide contributions of $1500 and $1000, respectively, to these institutions. These funds will be allocated toward enhancing on-campus mental health resource centers.

The annual MSN campaign continues to encourage candid conversations and foster open-mindedness about the importance of mental health through student advocacy. MSN encourages post-secondary students to recognize, understand, and normalize mental health challenges while promoting a culture of acceptance.

2023 MSN Fall Game Day Events

About the ACAC

The ACAC is the governing body for intercollegiate athletics in Alberta. Its mission is to provide competitive collegiate sport experiences, promote academic achievement and be a leader of sport development in Canada.

For more information on the ACAC, please visit our website: www.acac.ab.ca

For additional information, contact: 

Mark Kosak, ACAC
Chief Executive Officer
403-875-7329
markk@acac.ab.ca

Kayla Blacquiere, ACAC
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
kaylab@acac.ab.ca

Twitter: @acac_sport
Facebook: Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference
Instagram: @acac_sport

#ACACSport | #MakeSomeNoiseforMentalHealth #RBC