In June of 2023, Mind Forward graciously received a 2-year grant funding through the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Resilient Communities Fund, which has allowed the agency to create and offer a variety of 8-week Psycho-education courses for individuals who have sustained a diagnosis of Concussion. The 8-week program is offered both virtually and in-person, and provides an in-depth resource including curriculum, support strategies, and stress and relaxation activities for individuals struggling with challenges after a concussion.

 

 

ReNEW Concussion Transition Program: Concussion Awareness Initiative

What is the Concussion Awareness Initiative?

The Concussion Awareness Initiative, part of the ReNEW Concussion Transition Program, is a community-based project funded by TD Better Health – Ready Commitment Grant. Its aimed to raise awareness, improve access to care, and support young adults recovering from concussion—especially those who may be overlooked by traditional healthcare systems.

ReNEW works in partnership with schools, universities, and community organizations to bridge the gap between pediatric and adult concussion services. The Initiative helps ensure that youth receive timely diagnosis, coordinated follow-up, and safe recovery support.

 

What Services Are Offered?

1. Early Identification and Referrals
Through community-based screenings, the Initiative identifies youth who may be experiencing persistent post-concussion symptoms. Simple balance tests and symptom checklists are used to guide timely referrals to healthcare professionals for proper assessment and treatment.

2. Community Education and Awareness
Interactive workshops, culturally responsive educational materials, and outreach events increase symptom recognition and knowledge retention among underserved youth. By delivering interactive workshops and culturally appropriate materials, ReNEW will raise awareness not only of concussion risks but of the concrete steps needed for timely diagnosis and safe recovery.

3. Care Navigation and Continuity
Navigating concussion care can be overwhelming. ReNEW’s Transition Coordinators assist participants in connecting with specialists, and accessing community resources, ensuring that no one is lost to system complexity.

4. Peer-Led Support Groups
Recovery is more than physical healing—it’s about connection and confidence. Peer-led support groups and Psychoeducational workshops help youths share experiences, build coping strategies, reduce isolation, and improve adherence to return-to-actively protocols. Embedding young-adult concussion survivors as co-facilitators creates an environment where lived experience informs practical guidance, normalizes struggles, and builds community resilience.

5. Serving Underserved Populations
The Concussion Awareness Initiative prioritizes outreach to rural, low-income, Indigenous, and racialized youth. By partnering with community centres and minority-serving institutions, ReNEW ensures that those most at risk receive culturally safe education, screening, and follow-up support.

Can I Participate in the Initiative?
You may be eligible to participate if you meet the following criteria:
1. Have you experienced a concussion?
2. Are you between the ages of 18 and 25 years old?
3. Do you live in Ontario, Canada?