As July 1 approaches, the Sault’s YMCA is gearing up for its first-ever YMC’EH Canada Day Virtual 5K Run/Walk.
So how does it work?
Participants can register at the YMCA website and then begin posting about their training sessions. You can enter individually for $25 or pay $75 for a family of four, and also collect pledges for your run.
All proceeds this year will be donated to the Strong Communities Campaign, which provides free access and resources to YMCA programs for families and children who would not otherwise be able to attend them. From the registration stage, you’ll then be added to a Facebook group that has training videos.
It’s a space where participants can share their journeys, their struggles, and videos and photos of the run itself.
Tracey Cooke, CEO of the Sault’s YMCA says the virtual run/ walk “still gives people the opportunity to create community – even in the midst of a pandemic.” Prizes will be drawn for participants.
She says many people don’t realize that the YMCA is more than just a recreational/ healthy living facility – it’s actually a charity as well.
“The Y as a charity relies on donations to support the work that we do here in our community to ensure that everyone has a place where they belong," she said.
She says that people of all ages access that report – including vulnerable children and seniors, who see the Y as their safe and inclusive space. The virtual race target is $10,000 and so far, they’ve raised just over $2,500.
“Not only is the YMC’EH run a great way to encourage everyone to stay active, but all proceeds from the virtual event registrations and donations will go towards ensuring that everyone who wishes to be a Y member gets that opportunity – whether they can afford to or not.”
Isn’t that what being Canadian is all about?
For more information on the Sault Ste. Marie YMCA visit: www.ssmymca.ca or contact Lauren Nanne – lauren.nanne@ssmymca.ca.
If you haven't registered, you can do it here.
