I run the Canada Army Run because it’s a fantastic way to contribute to the health and well-being of the wider Canadian Armed Forces community. I have worked with several members who have benefited from the Soldier On and Support Our Troops programs.
Raising funds for me is about giving back and strengthening the pool of resources that I have witnessed my colleagues be able to access. Support for applicants vary:
- Members applying to the Support our Troops for national scholarship opportunities.
- Gift cards being distributed through the Padre over the holidays from MFRC for families who could benefit from a lift.
- Members who have experienced tragedies, like losing their home to a structure fire, and who can turn to these programs to replace sporting equipment if they choose.
- Members who have children with special needs who have benefited from extra support.
- Members who have had support to send their kids to summer camps.
Being part of the Defence team is a lifelong connection. When a person enlists they don’t know what will happen over the course of their service. Having Soldier On ready to assist when a member is ill and injured, across Canada, with a wide range of sport, recreational and creative activities where they can safely challenge limitations and inspire growth and recovery is really important. It makes me more confident and reassured that myself and my peers will receive support if it is needed.
In the CAF we are taught to lead from the front and look out for the well-being of our team. It is really rewarding to take part in raising awareness and funds to support the Defence team.
In the past, I ran solo. However, being a team captain in 2024 has been a ton of fun. There are 14 members from Bravo Company of The Rocky Mountain Rangers (a British Columbia based Infantry Reserve Unit) who agreed to volunteer and take part, many of whom are doing the Commander’s Challenge. We have been motivating and challenging one another and are currently #1 for fundraising in Canada (individually and as a team). To date, the team has raised $8,252.07 and counting!
As a team, we are always eager to compete. We do a number of local events. A 11km on Remembrance Day (starting at 2 AM). The annual Army Run. The annual Canadian Walk for Veterans. Several members of The Rocky Mountain Rangers ran 15 km a day for 7 consecutive days on their off time last October to raise funds for Wounded Warriors Canada.
Online registration for Canada Army Run is now closed. But you can still donate to Support Our Troops/Soldier On, here.
