Googie Butler Advocacy Awards 

Instituted in 1991, the Googie Butler Advocacy Awards honor the legacy of Gertrude “Googie” Walsh Butler—a passionate champion for mental health equity and inclusion. As Chair of Compeer Buffalo’s first Advisory Council, Googie was instrumental in bringing the Compeer model to Erie County. A person with lived experience of mental illness, she understood the healing power of friendship and the importance of community support in recovery. 

Following her own journey, she became a powerful voice for change—helping to improve mental health systems across New York State. The award named in her honor celebrates individuals, organizations, and Compeer-affiliated changemakers who reflect her passion, perseverance, and belief in the dignity of every person living with mental health challenges. 

Award Categories 

Nominations Open:  

May 1 – July 31, 2025 
 –Honorees will be celebrated in October at our Community Partners Reception in recognition of World Mental Health Day. 

Mental Health Awareness Tools

While May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, it is important to spread awareness and resources all year long. Below are various resources to assist you with increasing your mental health literacy. We encourage you to share these resources with your friends, family, colleagues, and customers to learn more about supporting someone who might be struggling with their mental health.

Mental Health Awareness Caps Are Back!

Back by popular demand! Originally launched in 2024, these limited-edition New Era 9FORTY style hats were such a hit that we’re bringing them out one more time. 

At just $20 each (max 4 per person), this is your chance to grab a fan favorite while supplies last — and support mental wellness in a meaningful way.

Every cap sold helps fund Compeer Buffalo’s mental health and social support programs. That means more one-on-one peer connections, more community wellness activities, and more support for individuals working toward mental wellbeing.

Hats must be picked up at our office — 1179 Kenmore Ave, Buffalo, NY 14217.
Shipping is not available, so plan to swing by and say hello when you grab your cap!
 
P.S. We’ve only got 45 left — once they’re gone, they’re gone!

Join the Fight for Mental Health: Your Donation can Save our School Program

 

Compeer Buffalo is urgently seeking $120,000 in funding to maintain its School Mental Health Mentoring program for the 2024/2025 school year in Maryvale and Cheektowaga Central school districts. This vital initiative, which has supported 545 students across Western New York since 2017, is at risk due to district budget cuts.

 

Program Highlights:

  • 95% of school staff recommend the program

  • 94% of students report improved self-esteem

  • 58% of students show improved attendance

  • 62% and 41% of students demonstrate increased math and reading scores, respectively

  • 99% of students would recommend the program

  • 93% of parents observe increased school attendance motivation

  •  

Student Testimonial:

“This program helped me manage my anxiety, improve communication, and become a better version of myself.”

 

Your support matters, every donation empowers students with courage, confidence, and resilience. Join us in becoming mental health champions for our youth.

To contribute to this life-changing program, please visit our donation link below.

Compeer Client and Volunteer Newsletters 

All current newsletters sent to Compeer volunteers and clients can be found below. 

The following community businesses have chosen to support Compeer this month! Shop local AND support Compeer. A win win for all.

Visit this Williamsville store to select from 5 blends of tea. Visit their website

 

Visit their store for a special Caramel’s display! 
Visit their website

 

 

A portion of every service call in the month of May will be donated to Compeer! Do you have pest control needs, their staff is top notch. Give them a call! Visit their website. 

 

 

New Era Cap designed a special cap in support of Mental Health Awareness month. Pick yours up from the flagship store or through the Compeer Merch store

 

 

Go Pink Buffalo now supports Compeer! Purchase your very own Buffalo lawn ornament through the Compeer Merch store

 

 

The Women in Technology group is hosting a Sip & Shop event on 5/23. 15% of sale proceeds are being donated to Compeer. For more information about the event, visit the WIT Network Buffalo LinkedIn Page

Compeer in the News

Compeer has been featured in several news outlets showcasing the benefits that friendship brings and the awareness of mental health. Follow the links below and read up on Compeer and their involvement in the community.

Compeer Buffalo
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