​​A tree planting ceremony and plaque presentation took place at John Caldwell School in Grand Falls Oct. 8 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Lync program.

Lync is a support program designed to help students facing difficult situations who may be in need of help and support for sorting out their problems. It was established after the Grand Falls Suicide Prevention Committee, local principals and health professionals joined forces to find ways to help youth in crisis. The program now operates around the province and is active in schools in partnership with the Department of Social Development's wellness branch.

Guest speaker for the special event at John Caldwell School was Martin Latulippe, a former university hockey player, who survived a near fatal injury during competition​.

Goals of the Lync program include promoting the power of positive thinking, setting goals, overcoming personal challenges, and knowing when you need to reach out for help and support.

Shown in the photos below (1) Martin Latulippe (centre) with Lync program supporters at John Caldwell School; (2) Supporters of the Lync program celebrate a tree planting and plaque presentation at the school.