Individuals and businesses who have had a positive impact on mental health in the community could be up for a Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Central Region award.

CMHA announced today it's looking for nominations for its annual Heroes of Mental Health Awards, set to take place Oct. 12 at the PCU Centre in Portage la Prairie. CMHA executive director Jordan Friesen says the organization wants to recognize individuals and businesses who work to promote positive mental health and awareness in the region.

"We're looking for someone who's had a positive impact on mental health in the community," Friesen says. "Whether it's an individual who has used their talents and story of recovery to inspire others, or a professional who's gone above and beyond to support someone in their recovery from a mental health issue."

In 2015, the event attracted approximately 130 people. Friesen says he hopes the Heroes of Mental Health awards will continue to grow this year, and hopes up to 150 people will attend. He says a new partnership with United Way could help in that regard.

"We know that the United Way is a charity that the community of Portage la Prairie can get behind," Friesen says, noting a portion of proceeds from the event will go towards United Way's fundraising goal of $247,500. "For us, it's a natural partnership to work with them to promote this event."

The awards ceremony will also feature keynote speaker Joyce Odidison, who has spent the last two decades helping people live and work well. She works with businesses and individuals to help them develop the confidence, interpersonal skills, and wellness management competencies they need to maximize their time, resources and energy. Odidison will speak to the topic of mental health in the workplace.

"We're hoping that some businesses and organizations might attend to learn a little bit more about that," Friesen says.

Friesen adds, recognizing positive mental health contributors is important, as it helps raise awareness of mental health issues, something everyone struggles with at times.

"Sharing stories of recovery is one way to end the stigma surrounding mental illness," explains Friesen. "It also lets people know it's a journey worth celebrating, one that we're all on."

The deadline to submit nominations is Oct. 7. Awards will be given out in five categories: inspiring individual, friend or family, professional, business or organization and youth ambassador.

For more information on the CMHA Heroes of Mental Health Awards and nominations categories, click here.