Coquitlam Centre Battles Against Bullying

Mobile devices in the Tri-Cities will be the first in Canada to potentially save lives. Having recently launched its 2TALK (28255) Bullying Help Text Messaging Platform Pilot, I AM SOMEONE Ending Bullying Society hopes to reach secondary school students through an approach that is comfortable, convenient and confidential – text messaging.

As one of the key business supporters of this innovative platform, Coquitlam Centre is leading the charge in mobilizing community awareness and bolstering fundraising opportunities in support of I AM SOMEONE. The super-regional shopping centre is set to kick off its brand new charity initiative, ‘The Ultimate Online Auction’, with all proceeds going to I AM SOMEONE Ending Bullying Society and 2TALK.

Tailored to all tastes and lifestyles, the online auction is guaranteed to have shoppers bidding, winning and giving back. Coquitlam Centre invites those looking for an invigorating round of golf, a culinary adventure tasting signature Rob Feenie inspired food with wine pairing, or a luxurious spa day to check out what the auction has to offer.

“We’ve all been touched by bullying, whether it’s personal or happened to a family member or friend,” says Deborah Stetz, Marketing Director of Coquitlam Centre. “We want to see a change, and we believe that change starts with us. ‘The Ultimate Online Auction’, which kicks off on October 18th, is Coquitlam Centre’s way of publicly raising awareness and funds for this unbelievable professionally managed texting platform. We want to get people talking; bullying is a very real problem in schools and in society. With the support of our community, we have the potential to create a shift.”

For the month of October, Coquitlam Centre and Vancity branches in the Tri-Cities are selling I AM SOMEONE ‘Bullying’ Emoticon Buttons for $5 a button, all proceeds go to the I AM SOMEONE Ending Bullying Society and 2TALK.

“Almost 90% of parents think their children will tell them if they are being bullied,” says Deborah, “Yet only 8% of them will. That is an astounding statistic, it’s a crisis waiting to happen and it’s up to each of us to do something about it. 2TALK can help youth connect with the resources they need to deal with their situation.”

The community is encouraged to visit Coquitlam Centre (Event Central) on Saturday, October 18th and Saturday, October 25th to view The Ultimate Online Auction ‘Showcase’ of the actual items up for bid.

For more information on Coquitlam Centre’s ‘The Ultimate Online Auction’ and for the opportunity to get involved and give back, please visit: http://coquitlamcentre.com/events/Ultimate-Online-Auction