With a goal of enhancing its health and wellness program for new mothers and their babies, YMCA Northumberland is gearing up for a big fundraiser.
YMCA Northumberland’s annual Strong Kids Duathlon takes place on Thursday, August 22.
“The Strong Kids Duathlon at the beautiful Cobourg Waterfront is not just any race; it is an uplifting, action-packed event that combines running and swimming challenges that showcase the spirit of young athletes,” YMCA Northumberland stated in a media release.
“This event promises to leave everyone smiling as young participants complete the course in Centennial Pool and Victoria Park with their hearts pounding and their faces beaming. Friends and family can join by cheering on these youngsters as they dash across the finish line.”
The YMCA Strong Communities Campaign helps children, teens, adults, and seniors in the community. YMCA Canada is one of the longest standing and largest charities nationally, with a presence in Canada since 1851 and now serving more than 2.1 million people annually across 1,700 program locations.
YMCA Northumberland’s 16th instalment of the Strong Kids Duathlon will support the non-profit organization’s “Mothers of Newborns” program. The free program aims to empower new mothers to stay active, build vital connections, and create a strong support network during their baby’s first year. Since 2017, it has positively impacted more than 1,800 mothers, providing essential tools for health and wellness, the release noted.
“We are thrilled to host the Strong Kids Duathlon and provide a platform for our young athletes to shine,” said Eunice Kirkpatrick, YMCA Northumberland CEO.
“This event is about encouraging kids to stay active, build confidence, and, most importantly, have fun. We are committed to ensuring that every child feels like a champion while also raising vital funds for our program. The support from our community has been wonderful, and it’s heartwarming to see everyone come together to make this event so special.”
YMCA Northumberland noted that, with inclusivity and celebration in mind, every participant will receive a medal, recognizing his or her effort and achievement. “This result ensures that all children leave the event with a sense of accomplishment and pride, regardless of their performance.”
The event garners support from many Northumberland families and businesses. YMCA Northumberland gives a shout-out to its current sponsors and partners — myFM 93.3, Kay & McCourt Barristers and Solicitors, Cameco, Lauria Auto Group, PJ’s Custom Outfitting, Moore’s Orchards, Vandermeer Toyota, and Lakeland Multitrade. There are still a few sponsorship spots left for this year.
“So, lace up your sneakers, wear your cheer gear, and get ready for the Strong Kids Duathlon. Whether you are participating in the race, volunteering or cheering from the sidelines, your presence will help positively impact our community.”
The starting line begins at Centennial Pool and Victoria Park. Check-in starts at 5 p.m., and races begin at 5:45 pm. Registration is $15 per child. Any child aged three to 15 can participate. Keepsake towels are available to purchase for $15 per towel.
“This event has many goals and thus, many outcomes would drive the event’s success,” Kathryn Harrison, manager, marketing communications and media relations for YMCA Northumberland, told kawarthaNOW.
“What is the best thing that could happen? We achieve a blend of key successes in participation, fundraising, youth empowerment, and community support.”
Harrison outlined four outcomes the organization would like to see from the event.
High participation: “We aim to see a large turnout and would be thrilled if attendance met or exceeded participation last year — which was just (more than) 100 children. Reaching more community members spreads the positive effects further.”
Fundraising success: “We would be celebrating if we met or exceeded our fundraising goal of raising $5,000 for the Mothers of Newborns program. The funds raised will enable us to welcome more new mothers and their babies from the community into our special health and wellness program going forward.”
Positive energy for the children: “We would be very happy if this event was deemed a summer highlight by any of the participating kids, where they felt empowered and excited by their achievements. This emotional uplift can have lasting effects that extend beyond the event itself.”
Community spirit: “We hope to create an atmosphere filled with positive energy where participants, families, spectators and volunteers come together to celebrate an active lifestyle and enjoy a strong sense of community and connection.”
The overall YMCA campaign targets raising the money needed to support children, youth and families in the community by giving them the opportunity to participate in programming, membership and day camp opportunities, regardless of their financial situations.
For more information and to register for the Strong Kids Duathlon, visit ymcanrt.org/duathlon2024/.
