Running for Mental Health

On June 26, thirty runners participated in the PACE Sports Fitness Charity Run. Embodying the slogan, “Running feels good. Giving back feels good. Doing both feels great!” the runners raised $9,145 for the Canadian Mental Health Association, Kelowna and District Branch (CMHA Kelowna) by making the 30km trek from Kelowna to Naramata.

CMHA Kelowna has been the charity of choice for this run as well as spring and fall runs for the past 3 years, raising more than $21,000. PACE have been longstanding community partners, raising awareness and funds through portions of registration, barbeques, and more.

This event held special meaning for many of the runners who have experienced mental health issues or recently lost a loved one. With at least 1 in 5 Canadians experiencing mental health issues, this is a cause that affects a large number of people in our community.

“Finding funding for our prevention and mental health-promoting programs can be extremely difficult which is why we’re so thankful to PACE Sports Fitness Charity Run for choosing to raise money for us,” says Candace Giesbrecht, Director of Community Engagement. “One of the best parts for us, though, was learning how connected this group is to the cause of mental health. This was more than just a fundraising run for so many of the participants.”

PACE Sports Fitness organizes several running events and training sessions in the Central Okanagan. New and seasoned runners alike can contact Rene pacesportsfitness@shaw.ca to get involved.

If your organization would like to learn more about raising funds for mental health initiatives, please contact Candace at Candace.giesbrecht@cmha.bc.ca