For Kenny, the outdoors has been more than just a place to escape; it’s been a sanctuary, a source of hope, and a path toward healing. As an individual living with autism, treatment-resistant depression, and complex PTSD, Kenny has faced his share of challenges. But through running – on roads and trails – he found solace. Each step represents a victory, each kilometer a moment of struggle overcome.
One of Kenny’s most defining moments came when, at just 16 years old, he completed the BMO Half-Marathon. This was not just a race; it was a breakthrough, a realization that he was more than his diagnoses, that he was a unique individual with dreams and aspirations that extended far beyond his struggles with mental health.
Kenny’s journey has not been a solitary one. He has also dedicated himself to giving back to his community. As a coach for a local high school’s Cross-Country and Track and Field team, he has been an inspiration to youth. His goal has always been to show young people that they are capable of overcoming any challenge — whether it’s related to school, social situations, mental health, or disability. That they are not defined by their past.
Now, as a Youth Peer Support Worker at Foundry Ridge Meadows, Kenny uses his lived experience to walk alongside other youth and guide them in overcoming their own struggles. He created a recreation group at Foundry, where he combines the healing power of the outdoors with the goal of helping youth regain confidence, improve coping skills, and, perhaps most importantly, reignite hope.
As this year’s recipient of the Brent Seal Mind vs. Mountain award, Kenny hopes to continue to inspire and uplift the community around him. His goal is to introduce new outdoor activities, like white water rafting and mountain biking, to local youth — especially those who are underprivileged. He is determined to create a safe, supportive space where youth can experience the transformative power of the outdoors, just as he has.
His story is a powerful reminder of the impact that outdoor recreation can have on mental health and personal wellness.