Bridging the Divide: How to mobilize purpose-driven impact in a world of polarization in mental health and social systems

Polarization is no longer a backdrop – it is actively shaping the systems we fund, design, and lead. This will be the focus of a virtual fireside chat, taking place on Friday, 8^th May 2026.

Across Canada and globally, divisions around housing, substance use, involuntary care, and service delivery models are influencing not only public discourse, but real-world decisions about who is served, how, and why. These divides don’t just slow progress they can fragment systems, sideline voices, and limit collective impact.

Hosted in collaboration with Mental Health and Wellness Affinity Group (MHWAG), four cross-sector leaders will explore:

• What is driving polarization – how it is showing up in our work as funders and system leaders
• Whereevidence, lived experience and community knowledge can help us move beyond entrenched positions
• Practicalapproaches to fostering productive dialogue across ideological differences
• The role of research, media, and philanthropy in building shared vision and measurable impact

Who should attend?
If you are a system leader, funder, policymaker, researcher, or sector partner committed to building more integrated and compassionate systems, this session will challenge assumptions, surface complexity, and focus on actionable insight.

Date and time
Friday 8^th May 2026
1:15 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
(90 minutes)

Reserve your space via this link.