By Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Capillary Wave Community’s recent fundraiser, Laughing Heals Comedy Night, proved that laughter can spark more than joy — it can build lifelines. Held at The Black Swan, the evening brought together comedians Casey Corbin, Jeff McEnery, and Bob LaBreque, who had the audience laughing while raising awareness and funds for local mental health supports.
For founder Nelson P. Borges, the event was the perfect blend of his passion for stand-up comedy and his mission to make mental health support accessible.
“I’ve loved stand-up comedy my whole life, so when the idea came up for this fundraiser, it just felt like divine alignment,” Borges said. “At least two men a day reach out for help. That takes resources, and nights like this allow us to keep providing support without financial barriers.”
Capillary Wave Community offers weekly men’s and women’s support groups, as well as access to the Pit Stop Crew — a team of holistic health professionals who provide everything from trauma-informed coaching and somatic therapy to legal guidance and life-skills training. Borges describes it as a space where true health is treated as holistic: encompassing emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health.
For many, that space has been transformative. A member who wished to remain anonymous shared how intimidating his first visit felt, but how quickly that changed.
“Walking up those stairs, I was nervous, but when I sat down, it was such an open and welcoming feeling, which for men is very hard to find. Nelson shook my hand, made me feel welcome even though he didn’t know me. It’s not a faux pas conversation anymore — men’s mental health is becoming normalized. You can say, ‘I’m not okay, I could use some help,’ and that feels huge.”
Women are finding the same relief. Tiya Longpré, a single mother and member of the women’s group, said joining helped ease her isolation. “It took me months before I finally showed up to a group, but once I did, it was nice to hear that you’re not alone. There’s no judgment, just support. I’d tell other moms who are struggling: take that first step — it’s definitely worth it.”
The men’s program has also gained strong support from Burlington Dads, a group of nearly 7,000 members on Facebook. Chris Carter, one of its administrators, explained, “We know there’s a gap in our healthcare system, and Nelson is filling it by making men’s mental healthcare accessible. Our group has joined forces with him through funding, sharing space, and spreading the word. Nelson has become a big champion for men’s mental health, and we’re proud to stand behind him.”
The event itself carried a strong sense of community thanks to sponsor Kate Kozub Realty, who provided gift bags filled with treats, snacks, and candles for every attendee. “It all came together through friends, family, and neighbours who believe in what we’re building,” Borges said.
Looking forward, Borges is preparing to launch Capillary Wave’s Holistic Education Group, which will bring mental health and wellness workshops into schools, boardrooms, and community spaces.
“People need to know that mental health is not just mental,” he explained. “It’s emotional, physical, and spiritual too. If one wheel is off, the whole car is off. That’s what we’re teaching.”
With every laugh shared at the fundraiser, Capillary Wave edged closer to its mission of breaking stigmas and building lasting support systems. As Borges put it, “When someone calls and hears, ‘How can I help you?’ on the other end, that’s when I know we’re in the right place, doing the right thing.”
