Cody Shepperd memorial golf tournament raises $25,000 for Youth Wellness Hub
GUELPH – The ninth annual Cody Shepperd Memorial Golf Tournament has raised $25,000 in support of youth mental health.
The event is held in memory of Cody Shepperd, who died by suicide on Oct. 20, 2017.
Held at Wildwinds Golf Links on Sept. 12, funds raised from the tournament go to the Fergus hub of Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario Wellington-Guelph, offering youth aged 12 to 25 free mental health, wellness and substance use support across seven hubs in Wellington County and Guelph.
“Cody was an exceptional athlete, a dedicated friend, a loving son and brother, and someone who left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him,” stated his father Paul Shepperd in a news release.
Cody competed regionally, nationally and internationally in wrestling, lacrosse, snowboarding and golf.
He was admitted to hospital with depression and anxiety in April 2016, believing concussions from playing sports contributed to his mental health challenges.
His struggles led to the creation of the Cody Shepperd Project.
“Through this tournament, we hope to continue sharing his story, raising awareness and supporting young people in our community,” Shepperd added in the release.
Hubs executive director Jeff Hoffman said the organization is “deeply grateful” to the Shepperd family and the tournament for providing funds that will help “ensure local youth have access to the support they need, when they need it.”
