NTFT TOUR POWERED BY BRP LAUNCHES WITH MICHELLE TREACY
Canadian Charity, No Time for That Anti-Bullying Society, Launches the NTFT Tour, Powered by BRP, Spreading Messages About Prevention and the Importance of Never Giving Up
The 5-week tour premieres across Canada on April 8th, 2024
No Time for That Anti-Bullying Society (NTFT) launches the NTFT Tour, Powered by BRP nationally to schools and community groups spreading education and awareness about bullying prevention. Since its inception in 2012, NTFT performers and motivational speakers empower youth and educators with school presentations about kindness and mental health awareness through storytelling and song. Over 700 school presentations have been delivered to-date directly impacting over 170,000 Canadian students and educators. The NTFT Tour, Powered by BRP returns to in-person visits in Ontario and Quebec, and virtual presentations coast-to-coast-to-coast.
School bullying is a deep-rooted problem that can devastate young individuals and have lasting effects into adulthood. Elementary students face bullying every 7 minutes, 85% of these incidents have bystanders (safecanada.ca/bullying-in-Canada/). According to the Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth (CHSCY), bullying remains a significant issue for Canadian youth between 12-17 years old with reports of 71% disclosing at least one instance of bullying over the past year. 71% of teachers claim to act, but only 25% of students agree. Over half don’t report it. Nearly half, or 40%, of Canadians are bullied in the workplace every week (safecanada.ca/bullying-in-Canada/). The detrimental impact of bullying on mental health, self-esteem, and overall well-being cannot be underestimated. No child should ever face a daily battle against cruelty, fear, and isolation. It is a shared societal responsibility to provide a nurturing environment that protects our youth from such torment and guides them toward a path of growth and self-discovery.
“Feeling seen, heard, and understood is important always, but especially when you are struggling,” says Elsie Morden, NTFT founder. “Being able to relate to someone’s experiences and see a part of yourself in an artist’s songs can be life changing. If they were able to overcome a situation like yours and stand up for themselves, then it’s possible for you too. Never give up.”
"It’s important now more than ever to prioritize bullying prevention and mental health support, offering hope amidst life’s challenges,” says NTFT presenter and performing artist Michelle Treacy. “Music transcends barriers and serves as both a healer and a bridge for connection, making our school presentations relevant and memorable. I’m honoured to share my personal journey about being bullied with students and to remind them that they are not alone, that there is hope, and to be kind to ourselves and others.”
Presentations include 45 minutes of speaking, live music performances, videos, activities, and resources for students, educators, and caregivers. Through personal stories and original songs, presenters share experiences of bullying and mental health with messages of resilience and hope resonating in the minds and hearts of students. Each presentation closes with a 15-minute Q&A and an opportunity to meet the touring crew.
“Through our generous donors and sponsors, including the NTFT Tour sponsor BRP and The Dollar A Day Foundation, our presentations are, and will always be, free of charge to schools. This eliminates any cost barrier to accessing our programs. Accessibility equity is paramount to us as an organization because we believe that everyone deserves these resources. This is why in addition to returning to our in-person tour in 2024, we are continuing our virtual programming which allows for expanded accessibility. Schools can join from anywhere at any time, including from remote communities," explains Melissa Toews, Board Chair, NTFT.
A teacher at Crichton Park Elementary School says “It was a wonderful presentation, and we all took so much from it. My students were highly engaged and more importantly, we are continuing the conversation and work each day. Thank you!”
For more information on how to join our legacy in helping to create a kind, safe, and inclusive world for students and youth visit: www.ntft.ca
To book a tour, email: bookings@ntft.ca
Follow us: @ntftcanada
To donate: ntft.ca/donate
About No Time for That Anti-Bullying Society (NTFT): NTFT was founded by award-winning performing artist and motivational speaker Elsie Morden at age 17 after surviving years of traumatic bullying. NTFT is one of Canada’s leading anti-bullying charities committed to empowering youth and educators to foster kind, empathetic, and inclusive school communities. The NTFT Tour, Powered by BRP, presents a unique blend of storytelling and music that educates and empowers young minds about bullying prevention and awareness. In addition to school presentations, the charity's initiatives cover a diverse spectrum of strategies, incorporating educational programs, awareness campaigns, and collaborations with support services. NTFT aims to be the preferred organization for all Canadian school boards seeking effective solutions for bullying prevention and awareness. www.ntft.ca Charity Registration #: 803861988RR0001
About BRP:
BRP Inc. is a global leader in the world of powersports products, propulsion systems and boats built on over 80 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Through its portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive brands featuring Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft and pontoons, Can-Am on and off-road vehicles, Alumacraft and Quintrex boats, Manitou pontoons and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts and recreational aircraft, BRP unlocks exhilarating adventures and provides access to experiences across different playgrounds. The Company completes its lines of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and apparel portfolio to fully optimize the riding experience. Committed to growing responsibly, BRP is developing electric models for its existing product lines and exploring new low voltage and human assisted product categories. Headquartered in Quebec, Canada, BRP has annual sales of CA$10.4 billion from over 130 countries and a global workforce of close to 20,000 driven, resourceful people.
Media Contact
Stephanie Fischer, Communications Specialist
stephanie.fischer@ntft.ca
647-224-2608
