Cross the Finish Line and Make a Difference

While most days running is a solitary sport, joining a race to fundraise for a cause offers the opportunity to be part of a larger team of individuals all working towards the same goal – making a difference in the lives of others.  This is one of the reasons I love the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 5K so much!

As a participant in the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, you can choose to run and fundraise for your favourite charity, making each step you take more meaningful knowing that you’re changing a life as you run. Now in its 10th year, the Charity Challenge has 166 charities participating, with a cumulative fundraising goal of $3.7 million!

For the second year, I am running for Nellie’s Women’s Shelter in Toronto.  This is the organization I work for and the cause of ending violence against women is one that is near and dear to my heart.  Last year as a team we raised $11,208 and this year our goal is $20,000.  For a small charity likes ours, this money means a lot.

What causes are you passionate about?  What would get you up out of bed and into your running shoes for a morning run?

If you’re passionate about Human Rights at home and around the world, run and fundraise for Amnesty International.

If someone you love is battling cancer, run and fundraise for the Canadian Cancer Society to join the fight against this horrible disease.

Concerned about the rising level of poverty in the GTA? Run and fundraise for the Daily Bread Food Bank.  They serve over 66,000 meals a month to hungry people in our city!

If the environment’s your thing, run and fundraise for Environmental Defense Canada, to protect Canada’s Environment and the health of your family and friends.

Are you a music-lover who believes every child should have access to a music program in their school?  Then MusiCounts is the charity for you!

None of these tickle your fancy? Well there are 160 other charities out there building great teams of runners who would love to have your support. Many of them offer great incentives for their team members ranging from free entries into the race, prizes for their top fundraisers, training programs, and more!

If you’re considering a fall race, I definitely recommend the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Half-Marathon and 5K. Not only is it a beautiful course full of amazing volunteers, music, and thousands of people cheering you on, it’s a race that gives back to our amazing city and celebrates the spirit of working together for change. Join the Toronto Waterfront Marathon Charity Challenge and cross the finish line knowing you have made a difference!

Are you already running for a charity this year? Let us know which one in the comments below!