Project 11, creating meaning from tragedy and bringing hope

In 2011, just months shy of marking the return of the Winnipeg Jets as a rostered player, Rick Rypien lost his battle with depression.

The True North Youth Foundation created the school-based mental wellness program Project 11 in his honour to provide education, resources and coping strategies in the hopes of preventing others from feeling like they had no other way out.

While the hurt will never go away, 11 years later, his family is incredibly proud of the impact the program is having in Rick’s name.

“It’s a good feeling to see Rick’s legacy continue through Project 11 as it is reaching a lot of students, both young and older,” said dad Wes. “Project 11 is a great resource and program that can be the help they need, not only short-term but long-term as well.”

Members of Rick’s family had the opportunity to see Project 11 in action at his alma matter, Crowsnest Consolidated High School in Alberta, as well as in Winnipeg during a recent visit to celebrate the 11th anniversary of Project 11 at the Jets annual #HockeyTalks game.

“Watching the program being taught, I could see how the young students were really getting something out of it,” remarked Wes. “I believe Rick would be very pleased with Project 11, especially how it is really helping such a large number of people.”

Project 11 began as a middle-years program but has grown its curriculum for all school grades and garnered support from numerous wellness professionals and ambassadors who lend their expertise to the program’s lessons, videos and live events.

Available at no cost to all Manitoba educators, this year, Project 11 is engaging more than 120,000 students in nearly 1,500 Manitoba classrooms. Awareness and interest in the program has spread, and Project 11 has worked with educators across Canada, in the U.S., and globally – meaning kids as far away as Australia and India know Rick’s story and are better equipped to manage their own emotions and feelings.

Through his own struggles, helping kids was always a passion of Rick’s – specifically ensuring they had support and resources that were not available to him.

“Everyone has issues in their lives, and the majority of people get through their problems every day,” said Wes, noting the hope that exists through programs like Project 11 and growing mental health awareness in general. “If the help that someone needs hasn’t been found or if it isn’t working, that person needs to keep looking.”

The NHL’s #HockeyTalks initiative is another platform heightening awareness for mental illness, open dialogue and the importance of supporting others with care and understanding.

Wes and his family felt the overwhelming support of fans at the Jets #HockeyTalks game, where Rick’s cousins Courtney, Liz and Teale dropped the puck as part of a special ceremony honouring his memory.

It’s in these moments that the family can find some meaning from their tragedy.

“Although it is tough because this came about because of Rick passing away, I believe the program would have been developed if he was still here,” reflected Wes. “He would have definitely enjoyed working with the P11 team and the kids who are being helped. I am very proud of what he has been able to inspire.”

Learn more about Project 11 and find out how to bring the program to your school or classroom at projecteleven.ca.