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.”
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