SURREY - The YMCA is inviting people across the Lower Mainland to participate in the second annual YMCA Strong Kids Megathon fundraiser, set for Saturday, Nov. 15.
With one in five kids coming to the Y requiring financial assistance to participate in its programs, the event asks participants to raise pledged donations that will go directly to children and families who need it most.
It's a chance to be "superheroes to today's kids," said Darlene Hepburn, VP of Fund Development for the YMCA of Greater Vancouver. "Together, we can remove the financial barriers that so many families face in accessing life-enriching programs."
The event will be held at four YMCA Centre of Community locations in Surrey, Vancouver and Chilliwack. Participants can register as individuals or teams and sign up for one or more one-hour activities, including cyclefit, yoga, step, zumba, line dancing, kickboxing and more.
"Get your family and friends together to commit to making a difference," urged Hepburn. "Help us raise funds for people like Sofia and her son Santiago as we give single-parent families like theirs access to child care in the critical years leading up to Kindergarten.... Not only will people get a great workout, they will gain the satisfaction that comes from contributing to a cause that connects people together in order to have healthy, strong kids."
At this time, following the early-bird deadline of Oct. 20, the registration fee is $40. For more information, visit Vanymcamegathon.ca or contact your local YMCA. In Surrey, Tong Louie Family YMCA is located at 14988 57th Ave., phone 604-575-9622.