The 2024 Run for Newmarket is more than just another race, it’s a powerful example of community solidarity and the remarkable impact of Mercy4Mankind, and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association.
This year Mercy4Mankind has a goal of raising $25,000 to support Southlake Regional Health Centre. Run for Newmarket Chair Arif Faheem Khan says, “This run isn’t merely about hitting a fundraising target; it’s about continuing to build a spirit of compassion and community throughout Newmarket and beyond. The 2024 Run for Newmarket promises to be an inspiring event filled with camaraderie, fitness, and philanthropy.”
Making a difference
The Run for Newmarket is about making a difference in the community. Every contribution helps support local causes.
In its first year in 2022, the Run for Newmarket supported Blue Door Youth Shelter and the Newmarket Food Pantry. Last year, funds raised supported Community and Home Assistance to Seniors. In the first two years, the Run raised a total of $25,000.
This year, organizers are hoping for 300 runners to participate on Thanksgiving Weekend and to reach and exceed their $25,000 goal. Southlake Regional Health Centre provides critical care for Newmarket and the wider community of Aurora, and East Gwillimbury. Khan says, “Every step taken, and every dollar raised directly supports Southlake’s essential services and it’s an opportunity for participants to contribute to the health and well-being of their community in a tangible way.”
Run for Newmarket is a youth initiative
What makes the Run for Newmarket particularly special is that it’s an initiative of Mercy4Mankind, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association. It exemplifies the power of youth activism and embodies interfaith collaboration. Under the banner of Mercy4Mankind, AMYA helps those in need by being actively involved in charity challenges throughout the year.
Its members promote kindness and service to humanity by organizing runs or walks to raise money for various charities across Canada. Their service also helps to break barriers and build bridges within the wider community. Mercy4Mankind is a subsidiary of AMYA which organizes 24 charity runs across Canada. Khan says, “The response from the Newmarket community has been wonderful since the Run was launched in 2022.”
A family-friendly event
The Run for Newmarket is a celebration of the community’s diverse spirit. The event brings together seasoned runners, casual walkers, and enthusiastic volunteers with a common purpose of supporting a local cause. Khan says, “Since the first run was held in 2022, the response from the community has been tremendous. The community supported the event by both running and raising funds.” Local vendors and entertainers are on site and individuals from the community often bring food and share it with others.
The Run for Newmarket is Sunday, October 13. The run starts and ends at Fairy Lake Park on Water Street in Newmarket. Here are the Run Day details:
- 7:30am - Registration
- 9:00am – Opening Ceremony
- 9:30am – 3K and 5K Run Start
- 9:45am – 1K Family Fun Walk
- 11:00am – Awards Ceremony
Awards ceremony is followed by a free lunch
- 5K Run Registration is $45 and includes a free T-shirt
- 3K Run is $35 and includes a free T-shirt.
Organizers are also appealing for support from sponsors and volunteers. Here’s how to get involved.
Register Now: Secure your spot by registering online at Run for Newmarket Registration. Early bird rates are available until September 15.
Volunteer: Organizers are appealing for enthusiastic volunteers to help make the event a success. Sign up to assist with registration, water stations, or post-run activities.
Sponsor: Explore sponsorship opportunities to showcase your business while supporting a great cause.
Touching lives by supporting Southlake
Ultimately, the 2024 Run for Newmarket is not only about raising funds; it’s about touching lives, and the deep sense of community that the event fosters. Arif Faheem Khan is urging the community to join them for a day of fitness, fun, and community spirit. He says, “Collectively, we can make a significant impact in supporting the vital work of the Southlake Regional Health Centre. We look forward to seeing you at Fairy Lake Park on Sunday, October 13th for an event that embodies the spirit of giving.
Let’s run for a cause and make the 2024 Run for Newmarket the best one yet.”
Register online here or email [email protected].
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