Participants followed public-health restrictions for each event. This family entered the Challenge for Life as a team at home and a Ride Inside team had a spin class at a facility where it was permitted at the time. Photos courtesy of CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
Challenge for Life. Smith refers to it as “our million-dollar day.” Normally, it involves a 20-kilometre walk starting in Winnipeg’s Assiniboine Park, as participants raise funds for cancer research, preventative and early detection measures, and patient care. Losing those fundraising dollars — all of which stay within Manitoba— would have been a devastating blow, so the foundation switched to a virtual challenge, spread over three weeks. Participants from across Manitoba tackled individual or team exercise challenges that covered at least 20 kilometres or 200 minutes. More than 700 people from 65 communities took part, helping to make the event a success despite a difficult year. “We had more communities engaged than ever and we still raised over $1 million,”
Smith says. The shift to a virtual fundraising platform has provided more opportunities for Manitobans to participate. It’s also allowed the foundation to give greater support to those who need it. “We’ve been able to tell more stories and have more reach,” says Smith. The foundation is keeping the momentum going with more virtual events, such as this year’s Challenge for Life and a weekly Chase the Ace draw. Supporters can visit the CCMF website to find out how they can help — by rallying co-workers to contribute donations, for example. Many supporters have taken to hosting their own events to raise funds for CCMF. In fact, more than 300 community events are held annually. Event guidelines
and applications are also available on the foundation’s website. “We want to be relevant and provide meaning and real engagement to people,” says Smith. If this past year is any indication, she and her team have done just that, while continuing to advocate for a future that is cancer-free. ■
To learn more, visit cancercarefdn.mb.ca.
COMMERCIAL LEASING OPPORTUNITIES 16,000 FT 2 OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE SUMMER 2021 FEATURES Ample parking spots available Access to Wi-Fi Direct airside access
Formation of rooms available for open concept or breakout rooms
Marketing@Southport.ca
204.428.6038
Southport.ca
SPRING 2021
15
Powered by FlippingBook