The Islamic Social Services Association saw the need for mental health supports for Muslims across Canada. It turned to Capacity Builders to develop a framework for collaboration across Canada to create the Institute for Muslim Mental Health – Canada.
There are many Muslim individuals and families struggling with mental health in Canada: women, youth and new Canadians, especially refugee families. The Institute will promote the best in Muslim mental health practices, facilitate an improvement in healing, resiliency and wellness, especially mental health, and bridge cultures. Rather than providing direct services to vulnerable people, the Institute will empower the Muslim community, its partners and stakeholders in the realm of mental health. It will serve as a Centre of Excellence, a hub for research and knowledge, and a catalyst for collaboration, organizing events and connecting individuals, families, community organizations and professionals involved in frontline efforts to promote wellness.