A charity event to support the YMCA’s financial assistance program is expanding to Chatham-Kent and Sarnia.
The program gives everybody access to YMCA camps, programs, and services, according to the YMCA.
“Our London event continues to be a huge success and an evening of celebration, so we're excited to expand it to other communities in our region! This will help us raise funds in each community to provide access to our vital programs and services for everyone," said YMCA Vice President Christina Harley. "When people can access these necessities at the Y, they become a part of their community where they can truly thrive."
The YMCA noted all funds raised stay in their respective communities.
The Jordan’s Run the Runway charity event started in London 11 years ago and has raised over $1 million for the Jordan Strickland Family fund for YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth. The YMCA said the run event has been held in honour of Jordan Strickland who was an active member of the YMCA community and a camper and volunteer at YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth (CQE). Jordan passed away in a car accident in 2014.
“Because of the Y’s and CQE's inclusivity core value, Jordan and others who have physical or other challenges have always been welcome to share the same awesome camp experience as any other kid, with whatever support it takes to make that happen," said Jordan's mom Janice Strickland. "Each year we send kids to YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth or leadership camps for fully subsidized camp experiences. In addition, we can also provide funding for capital needs or special projects at camp.”
Participants are welcome to register for one, two, or all three events. The YMCA explained each event is a "flat and fast", certified 5K that participants are invited to run, walk, or roll on a runway, adding the "family-friendly events" include a 1K kiddie trot on the runway and food and drink in the hangar at the airport after the 5K run, walk, or roll.
Click here to register or to get more information.
The Chatham-Kent event will take place on Friday, September 13 at the Chatham-Kent Municipal Airport, the London event on Friday, September 20 at the at Fanshawe College Norton Wolf School of Aviation and Aerospace Technology, and the Sarnia-Lambton event on Friday, October 4 at the Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport. All runs will take place in the evening.