Hal Johnson and Joanne McLeod said it best: keep fit and have fun. As the brains and muscle behind the immortal public service announcement “Body Break”, they helped thousands of Canadians of all ages embrace exercise, teamwork, and nutrition, and for that, we salute them.
At United Way British Columbia, we take this philosophy one step further. We want residents of our community to know that it’s possible to keep fit, have fun, AND help change your community for the better.
When you strap on your sneakers for a good cause, you can:
- Improve your health,
- Make great memories, and
- Help build the kind of healthy, caring, inclusive communities we all want to call home.
It’s a win—win—win.
Think of it as a fitness FUNraiser!
Living in the Lower Mainland there is no shortage of fun runs, remarkable races, and outdoor adventures for you to enter, especially if you’re looking to compete as a team. Just think of it as sweat equity!
Here are five ways to get your steps in, while showing your community some local love.
Scotiabank Charity Challenge
The Scotiabank Charity Challenge is an annual event that takes place at the end of June in Vancouver. You and your team can sign up for one of two events: a 5 KM run through Stanley Park, or half-marathon (21.1 KM) that runs (pun intended) from the University of British Columbia to the entrance of Stanley Park at Second Beach. This year, 80 charities took part in the challenge, with participants raising almost $1 million for their programs and services.
It’s a great opportunity for individuals of all ages and athletic abilities – whether elite competitors or beginners – to walk or run the course that is right for them.
Missed out this year? Mark your calendars for June 2019, and start training now!
United Way Tech Grind
Log out of your computer and log into nature at United Way’s Tech Grind! This race takes teams up Grouse Mountain – all 2,830 steps – to raise funds to support life-changing, local after-school programs.
Race day activities include yoga, great food, chilled beverages and a chance to mix and mingle with other teams, before and after the Grind. (During the Grind, all bets are off). You’ll also get back down the mountain with a complimentary ride on the Grouse Mountain Gondola.
All donations stay 100% local to help kids access United Way-supported after-school programs.
Can you hack it?
Terry Fox Run
For over 30 years The Terry Fox Foundation has worked to achieve Terry Fox’s vision: a world without cancer.
The Terry Fox Run is an annual event that invites everyone – regardless of age, athletic ability or socio-economic standing – to take part in a community walk or run.
While the run does not have an entry fee or minimum donation, participants are gently asked to fundraise by purchasing the annual Terry Fox t-shirt or by raising funds online. However you choose to give back, you can support life-changing cancer research and outreach.
UPS Plane Pull
Show your local love at the UPS Plane Pull and help local kids reach new heights! This is a challenge with the potential to deliver real change as teams test their strength by pulling a Boeing 757 jet across the tarmac. That’s 127,000 lbs!
Participants at the 2017 UPS Plane Pull
All funds raised go directly to local kids and youth; from after-school programs that help vulnerable kids, to supports for youth who have aged out of foster care and are trying to make a better life for themselves by getting a post-secondary education.
Come out and show the competition how it’s done. Prove that your team is as good as it jets!
Go your own way
Stretch your muscles – creative and physical – and put your own spin on the fitness fundraiser.
Love stairs? Organize a stair climb with your friends and family, with entry fees going to your charity of choice.
More of a biker? Get a crew together and cycle the city, with each kilometer sponsored by members of your community.
Enjoy sweet tunes? Throw a dance-a-thon at your local community hub, and donate proceeds from the ticket price.
There are so many ways to move our community to a better place, simple by moving our bodies. And if you’re feeling stuck, channel your inner Hal and Joanne – all it takes to get started is a single step.
Looking for more fun ways to get involved with your community? Join us at United Way Day on September 20! Learn more here.
Topics : Building strong communities
