We helped Dr. Stu Gershman fulfill his dream of creating a program in memory of his son, Jesse Short-Gershman. Buddy Check for Jesse was developed as a way for hockey coaches to help raise awareness on their teams that mental health issues can affect anyone. Coaches are key to helping create an environment where teammates support one another. Buddy Check for Jesse and its partners provide green tape to teams around BC so that, on the last weekend of October each year, players can tape their sticks to demonstrate their awareness and support of mental health. The program also includes a website, video, posters, wallet cards and notes to help Coaches share this important message.
Kids & Mental Health
Buddy Check for Jesse
Results:
Since the program’s inception, over 1,500 minor hockey teams have received green tape, wallet cards, coaches’ notes and posters in BC and across Canada. The story has resonated so greatly that two videos went viral with 34,000 views within weeks.
