2024 Toronto Charity Challenge

This year, the Canadian Premature Babies Foundation (CPBF) saw success in its fundraising efforts during the 2024 Charity Challenge events held in Toronto and Vancouver, as well as virtually. Our committed runners, many of whom are parents of preemies themselves, and generous donors came together to support our cause, raising funds and awareness for premature babies and their families. 

Community and Connection 

A significant number of our race participants are parents who have experienced the challenges and milestones of having a premature baby. This personal connection to our cause fuels their passion and dedication, making them some of our most enthusiastic and effective fundraisers. These incredible individuals ran not only to challenge themselves but to give back to a community that has supported them through their journeys. Their efforts directly contribute to our ability to fund educational programs and mental health supports that benefit premature babies and their families. 

Toronto TCS Challenge Highlights 

The Toronto event was a great achievement, with 20 enthusiastic participants running in-person including children born pre-term. The Toronto TCS Waterfront Marathon featured a variety of race types, including a Marathon, Half Marathon, and a 5K held on October 18 and 19, 2024. The spirit and energy of our runners were truly inspiring! CPBF runners even took turns pushing an incubator for the entire 5K walk, with a bear from Cuddle For Keeps inside.  

Vancouver Marathon Challenge Achievements 

Not to be outdone, Vancouver had 19 in-person participants who took part in the scenic Vancouver Half Marathon and other races including a 5K and a Kids Race and took place on June 22, 2024. CPBF earned a $750 prize for being "the official charity with the third largest average dollars raised per fundraising runner," which shows the dedication and passion of our supporters. 

Hazel's Story from the Vancouver Run 

Hazel, a 7-year-old micro preemie born at 23 weeks, participated in the Vancouver run with incredible determination. Despite her challenges with cerebral palsy and needing custom AFOs to walk, Hazel walked 3.5 kms of the 5 kms on her own. This was a huge challenge, but she ran her little heart out and made sure she ran across the finish line herself, with her family and even her teacher there alongside her. 

Hazel’s mom expressed her reasons for supporting CPBF through the run. “We all showed up for Hazel and for Canadian Premature Babies Foundation because it means the world to us to have the support of CPBF and for Hazel to see that there is no limit to what she can do and how important it is to use our voices for things that matter.  

We will be running again this year for CPBF and Hazel will once again be at the centre of it with our family and friends running alongside her.” 

Virtual Runs Extend Reach 

We were so pleased to have three virtual runners this year and amazingly our three virtual runners alone raised a total of $5,159.80!!!  We would love to add even more virtual runners in 2025. 

Overall Impact 

In total, across all events and formats, CPBF raised $10 411.83 in 2024. These funds are crucial in supporting our ongoing initiatives and providing essential resources to premature babies and their families. 

Looking Ahead in 2025 

Encouraged by this year's success, CPBF is eagerly anticipating next year’s events. The 2025 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is already scheduled, with the 5K on October 18, and the Half Marathon and Marathon on October 19. The virtual race option will be available throughout October to ensure everyone has a chance to participate. 

To register for Toronto, please visit: 2025 — 2025 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon — Race Roster — Registration, Marketing, Fundraising 

For Vancouver, the Half Marathon and other races are set for June 22, 2025, with virtual events from June 1-30. 

To register for Vancouver, please visit: 2025 — 2025 Vancouver Half Marathon — Race Roster — Registration, Marketing, Fundraising 

Join Us This Year 

We hope to see even more runners and supporters join us in 2025. If you are interested in participating or want more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out via email at info@cpbf-fbpc.org. Let’s make next year even more successful! 

Together, we are making a difference in the lives of premature babies and their families. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our cause. Let's keep the momentum going and aim for even greater heights next year!