We were prepped and ready. After months of fundraising, making posters, and promotion on social media, we filled our water bottles, crossed our fingers for good weather, and made it to the starting line of the Vancouver Half for the Charity Challenge! Our entire team showed up for the big day — including our brand-new CEO, Shellina — along with other supporters and family members. All together, we smashed our goal and raised over $5000 for important public health initiatives, and contributed to the overall total of $475,000 raised by the 46 charities that participated! Here are some reflections from the team about their experience:
Matt, (our newly-appointed) Chief Operations Officer: How I was feeling after the 5K? Drained, dizzy, sweaty. Print that. One of the thoughts going through my head was how everyone was supporting one another’s success. Some folks were walking with friends, others were running solo. Some were faster at finishing than others. But people were celebrating as a team and with the broader running group when people crossed the finish line. Similar to public health, our broader population health is more impactful than any one individual’s gain. If we focus on lifting one another up, ensuring people reach the finish line together but in the way they need (equity), we create a better experience for everyone.
Stacey, Associate Director of Marketing and Communications: I was incredibly inspired to have our whole team show up, together. It really showcased the type of team we are, and our shared passion and commitment to the organization and our cause. It was also fantastic to see all the folks come together — the energy of the run was great, and it felt like a really positive space.
Emily, Program Coordinator: I felt very inspired, not only by how our entire team came together but also how many other organizations showed up to support their cause. It was uplifting to see so many people come together in one space.
Deanne, Marketing and Communications Officer: I couldn’t believe how many people were there! We could all feel the excitement and joy in the air. There were people participating in all different ways, from those in wheelchairs, to those pushing strollers, and some even carrying their little ones! It made me grateful to live in a place that has so many caring people, giving up their time and energy to support others. And there was minimal whining from my kids. What a great experience!
Tracy, Senior Development Officer: It was an amazing day with our team — a day filled with heart and unity — inspiring to witness the community come together in support of so many great causes!
Maddie, Senior Marketing and Communications Coordinator: I love being active, and it was such a fun change of pace to share that experience with coworkers I don’t usually get to connect with in that way. (And she’s not one to brag, but Maddie finished the 5K in only 21 minutes and 33 seconds, 20th out of the 668 women who participated and definitely the speediest of all our team members!)
And will we be at the 2026 Vancouver Half? That’s a resounding yes! We may even set a new fundraising goal. Our collective commitment to the projects we support does not waiver, and we are proud to run, walk, and roll to raise money and help fund public health innovations that make the communities in our province safe and healthy. If you missed your chance to sponsor us at the 5K, you can donate to our organization anytime on our website.
