A collaborative effort between charitable groups in Okotoks will benefit local youth.
The KidSport Okotoks "Race the River" fun run will see participants take part in their choice of a two or five-kilometre loop running or walking along the Sheep River, starting and finishing at the Okotoks Arts & Learning Campus, on Saturday, Sept. 21 at 10 a.m.
KidSport, a national not-for-profit organization providing financial assistance for registration fees to kids aged 18 and under, has branches across Canada, with the Okotoks organization only funding Okotoks youth.
"The money stays here," said event chair Kristen Lightfoot.
"We help overcome financial obstacles for getting kids in organized activity, so if you qualify, we will provide a grant of up to $500 per kid per year to use towards sports registration."
In 2023, the organization distributed $66,428 in funds to 174 local youth in 27 different organized physical activity programs — an 82 per cent increase in demand over 2022, according to KidSport Okotoks.
Demand for the non-profit's services is only going up, she continued.
"We're already seeing a 64 per cent increase in demand this year, so we will help over 200 kids in 2024," she said.
The fun run is a collaborative effort between KidSport Okotoks and several local service organizations including the Okotoks Optimist Club & Jr. Optimists, Rotary Club and Kin Club of Okotoks.
“This is about more than just raising funds,” said Amy Giroux, Okotoks Optimist Club president. “It’s about bringing our community together and ensuring that all kids, regardless of their financial situation, have the chance to experience the joy and benefits of sports.”
Alongside the fun run, the event's festive atmosphere will include live music, food stalls and family-friendly activities.
David Moss, chairperson of KidSport Okotoks, expressed gratitude for the community effort.
“Sports teach kids invaluable life skills like teamwork, perseverance, and discipline, but many families simply can’t afford to enrol their children in these programs," he said. "This Family Fun Run will help us change that.”
Individual registration is $20 for adults and $10 for children, and all participants will receive medals.
Learn more about "Race the River" here, including information on registration and fundraising.
