In January 2023, after the tragic loss of his brother Chad, Wade Ringler’s idea for Chat4Chad was born.
It didn’t come from planning or preparation, but from raw grief and a desire to create something positive in the face of unimaginable pain.
Ringler, the founder of Chat4Chad, says the mission has always been simple but urgent: to make conversations about mental health normal, safe, okay and judgment-free.
“If we can remove the stigma, we can make a real difference,” said Ringler.
What followed became not only a tribute to Chad’s life, but a movement.
Chat4Chad encourages open, honest and early conversations about mental health; conversations that are often difficult to start, but vital for healing.
Its message is clear and powerful: chat early, often and now.
Backed by a wave of community support, the initiative has grown into a respected voice in North Bay’s mental health landscape.
Whether through speaking engagements, local events or contributions to the North Bay Regional Health Centre Foundation, Chat4Chad is making a tangible difference, in homes, in schools and across the community.
Ringler believes people are becoming more comfortable talking about their struggles, a sign that change is happening.
“Shifting the mindset around mental health starts with everyday conversations,” explained Ringler. “Talking helps, even when it’s hard. We need to keep reinforcing that message.”
One of the organization’s proudest accomplishments is the Chat4Chad patient lounge at the North Bay Regional Health Centre. This calm, home-like space is designed to help people feel more at ease in their recovery journey.
“We created a space that feels like home,” Ringler explains. “And the response from patients has been incredible. When they feel more at ease, it helps their healing.”
But the true measure of the initiative’s impact, Ringler said, is when strangers open up to him about their own mental health.
“That’s powerful,” he says. “It shows we’re creating a space where people feel safe, even if they don’t know you.”
As the movement gains momentum, its vision for early intervention grows stronger.
“The prevention piece is huge,” Ringler stated. “That’s why we’re working to get into schools, so kids grow up knowing it’s okay to talk. We want to give them tools before life gets tough.”
Looking ahead, the excitement continues to build. The organization’s upcoming gala, already sold out, will bring 600 people together in support of six local mental health agencies.
“It’s become a powerful community event,” Ringler shared. “It’s full of hope, connection and purpose.”
He’s quick to point out that recognition isn’t what drives him.
“I don’t do this for recognition,” shared Ringler. “But it’s an honour. It shows that Chat4Chad is making an impact and that people are noticing. That matters, because it means the conversations are starting.”
Being named a recipient of a Community Builders Award has only deepened Ringler’s sense of purpose.
“It gives me even more drive to keep going, to help people and to keep making these conversations a normal part of life,” he said.
Chat4Chad’s strength lies in its authenticity.
Born from heartbreak and driven by purpose, it reminds us that mental illness is not weakness, it’s illness and no one should have to face it alone.
The Health Care Award is presented to an individual or group that has had a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of the community.
Congratulations to Chat4Chad and to all those carrying its message forward.
Your voices and your chats are making a difference.
This award is proudly sponsored by Ashley HomeStore North.
