02/26/2026
We want to tell you a little story about a bear with a big heart for helping others.
In 2021, Coco Bear Fundraiser reached out to us about a partnership. Created by Shari Dubois to honour her son Conrad, Coco Bear was a local initiative raising funds for youth mental health and addictions support. She was inspired by a piece of art Conrad left on the refrigerator, a colourful bear nicknamed Coco Bear. She began printing Coco Bear on t-shirts and sweatshirts to raise funds.
From our very first meeting with Shari and Coco Bear, we were in. Shari’s desire to support mental health came from her own family’s struggle in trying to find help for Conrad – and not being able to get it. Shari wanted to change this reality for other young people in Muskoka.
Five years later, Coco Bear continues to be one of our biggest supporters. We just received another $5,000 donation from Shari, who has now raised $73,876.78 for MiND-AID! This latest donation will support our Therapy Fund, which help covers specialized therapeutic supports.
Having sustainable support from Coco Bear is why we can continue to support young people with navigating the mental health system and accessing the help they need.
Shari, you and Coco Bear have done so much for young people in our community. We are beyond grateful that you chose to team up with us because you are a huge part of our story and our work. Thank you, thank you, thank you! 💙
[Photo: Two of the cutest Coco Bear supporters presenting a cheque for $5,000 to MiND-AID.]
