YMCA of Greater Toronto raises $180,000 to send children to camp during first annual charity run
Over 1,000 participated in the 2024 YMCA Charity 5K, to raise funds and help send 500 children to YMCA Camps next summer
Toronto – September 28, 2024 – This morning, the YMCA of Greater Toronto held its first annual charity run, YMCA Charity 5K, in support of sending children to YMCA camps. The event took place at Downsview Park and welcomed people of all ages and fitness levels including runners and walkers to come together as a community, have fun and help raise funds to support YMCA Camps. More than 1/3 of participants were children and youth.
This year’s YMCA Charity 5K raised over $180,000 and will help send 500 children to YMCA Camps next summer. Since April, participants have actively been training and reaching out to their communities to raise funds and help make camp a reality for children across the GTA.
“This morning’s event embodies what it means to be part of a community like the Y,” said Lesley Davidson, President & CEO, YMCA of Greater Toronto. “Watching people come together to give others a chance to experience camp, while having fun, is how our community continues to grow each and every day.”
Every summer, the YMCA of Greater Toronto offers 1,000 camp programs at over 50 different locations across the GTA. Summer camp gives children and youth a chance to learn new skills, make new friends and ignite their true potential to shine year-round.
Participants ranged in age from toddlers to adults. The event was supported by over one hundred volunteers and supporters cheering from the sidelines.
The Y offers various camp programming including arts, sports, overnight and leadership camps, so there is something for everyone.
The YMCA Charity 5K was a success thanks to our presenting sponsor, Saporito Foods.
Learn more about the YMCA and its breadth of programs from camp to child care and health and fitness to employment at ymcagta.org.
About the YMCA of Greater Toronto
The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead and give back to their communities. For 170 years, the YMCA of Greater Toronto has provided opportunities for people to shine through a variety of programs and services including health and fitness, licensed child care, camps, employment and immigrant services, education and training, and services for youth, families and seniors. Promoting equity and boosting well-being across more than 500 locations in the Greater Toronto Area, the Y is a leading charity that helps everyone shine.