With $464,402 unveiled June 3 at the closing ceremonies of the 18th annual Vancouver Island Money Mart Easter Seals 24 Hour Relay for the Kids, the event has now raised over $8 million since its inception in 1995. Participants from all over the Island pushed their limits of endurance, stamina and fun over the weekend as they celebrated months of fundraising to help support Vancouver Island’s children with disabilities. Over 30,000 donors from Island communities gave generously to support this key community event.
Over 2,000 runners, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters enjoyed the festive atmosphere at the University of Victoria. Funds raised this past weekend will ensure the continued operation of Easter Seals Camp Shawnigan, a specialized summer camping program where children with disabilities enjoy a weeklong experience at no cost to their families.
“This event is about the community stepping up to support a great cause. The teams involved in this year’s event have worked very hard to raise money to help send kids with disabilities to summer camp,” say Dianne and Cliff LeQuesne, honourary co-chairs. “Congratulations to everyone involved! You have stepped up to help young people in our community enjoy a better life. It is an honour to be associated with such a well-run, high profile event.”
Top fundraising teams were:
• Corporate Division – “Sweet Assets” (RBC Royal Bank) - $14,084
•Small Business Division – “Royal Roadrunners” (Royal Roads University) - $14,256
• Recreational Division – “Lightning Crickets” - $30,810
Overall top five fundraising teams were:
• #1 Fundraising Team: “Lightning Crickets” - $30,810
• #2 Fundraising Team: “Off In the Woods” - $20,379
• #3 Fundraising Team: “Sooke Sole Patrol” - $15,406
• #4 Fundraising Team: “Royal Roadrunners” - $14,256
• #5 Fundraising Team: “Sweet Assets” - $14,084.