Skip to content

Lace up your runners and help raise money for the YMCA

Partnership sees the first YMCA Race to the Finish Line, with the goal of completing the $2M My Y is Resilient campaign
JanuaryThaw
YMCA Sudbury in downtown Sudbury. (File)

The YMCA of Northeastern Ontario is getting some help to cross the finish line of their $2-million My Y is Resilient campaign.

NSS Canada, in partnership with Apex Warrior, will host a race event in support of that campaign

“Everybody has been impacted in a big way by COVID, and the YMCA is no different,” said NSS Canada president Bruno Lalonde. “We’re all about the health and wellness of our staff and community at NSS, and the Y is a hub for family and individual wellness. So, we’re bringing other businesses and community organizations together to make a positive impact in a fun and exciting way.” 

They are calling the race the YMCA Race to the Finish Line. It will consist of courses of one km, five km, 10 km and 21 km, which will be designed by Apex Warrior at Kivi Park on April 2. 

“There will be cash prizes for the winners of each division, which is going to draw a lot of racers, but they’d better expect to work for their prize,” jokes racing course designer Dennis Legault, owner of Apex Warrior. 

An awards gala at the Science North Vale Cavern will be held that evening, featuring a silent auction, 50/50, sit-down dinner catered by Bryston’s on the Park, and a DJ. 

“Our mandate is to give everyone the opportunities they need to live healthier and happier lives, regardless of their circumstance,” said YMCA development officer, Kristofer Cacciotti. “Closures due to COVID were necessary but resulted in essentially zero revenue for us to pursue that mandate. People rely on us, and we want to continue supporting our communities. It’s so heartwarming to see local businesses and organizations being prepared to step up.”

The YMCA’s Health and Wellness Centre (gym facility at 140 Durham St.) is a self-funded entity, operating solely with revenue generated via operations or fundraising, said Cacciotti.

“No public funds are used to fund the gym/pool facility, which is what the YMCA is truly known for,” he said. 

All net proceeds for the YMCA Race To The Finish Line will go directly to YMCA programs and services, such as: 

Sending children to camp – where friendships, confidence, and memories are made. 

Financial assistance of memberships for families and individuals in need – they’ll have a safe space where they can connect and grow. 

Empowering young people – where they can learn valuable leadership skills and independence. 

People interested in participating in the race can register here. There is also information about the various sponsorship packages available to local businesses and organizations who wish to support the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario. 

“The response has already been amazing, and we’re just getting started,” said Lalonde. 

The My Y is Resilient Campaign has a goal of $2 million, and it’s critical to the ongoing sustainability of our varied programs and services, said YMCA of Northeastern Ontario CEO, Helen Francis.

“Much like running, fundraising campaigns are a test of commitment and resolve – so there is no better way than with the ‘YMCA Race to the Finish’ to see us secure those final dollars,” Francis said. 

“As an avid runner myself, I am thrilled that Community Partners Apex Warrior, NSS and Kivi Park are willing to support us in this way. I encourage everyone from those beginning to run, through to the advanced runners to join us in beautiful Kivi Park, for a wonderful spring run, and to support our campaigns race to the finish.”


Comments

Verified reader

If you would like to apply to become a verified commenter, please fill out this form.