TORONTO, May 3, 2013 /CNW/ - This Sunday, runners and walkers alike will put their beliefs in motion as they participate in the Toronto Marathon on behalf of Team World Vision.
The group, comprised of under a dozen staff of the relief and development organization, has collectively raised almost $2,000 to donate toward child-focused programs, including those that help sexually exploited children.
"By participating in this race, I can take action toward a very dark issue," says Lina Mohamed, manager of Supporter Experience. "All it took was sharing the cause I was supporting and a wave of people jumped on-board."
The race also has new meaning to the participants who wish to honour those affected by the recent tragedy in Boston.
"My initial gut instinct was that I was afraid," says top fundraiser, Sharon Kay, who collected over $600. "Then yesterday, I heard on the news that registration has sky-rocketed due to people who wanted to run in solidarity for Boston and I thought, 'This is an exciting movement to be a part. I'm so glad I'm doing it.'"
Under the coordination of Team World Vision's newest captain, Leo Tang - who placed first in the Ontario CrossFit Open and qualified for the World's Toughest Mudder - the team intends to enjoy every minute of the 21.1 km journey.
"I'm excited for our team to set the example in 'walking the talk' by fundraising toward the very causes and programs we promote," says Tang. "By taking the first steps and getting ourselves in motion, I'm confident we can lead others to join us in a movement."
Interviews available:
Team World Vision Captain, Leo Tang; 647-290-9760
World Vision is a leading Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Inspired by our Christian values, we are dedicated to working with the world's most vulnerable people. We serve all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.
Image with caption: "Running for change. (L to R) Sponsored children Sima, Humu and Hena are just three of the happy kids worldwide who benefit from funds raised through World Vision. (CNW Group/World Vision Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130503_C3438_PHOTO_EN_26325.jpg
SOURCE: World Vision Canada
Kim Rupnarain, 416.846.3953; [email protected]
Leo Tang, 647-290-9760; [email protected]
Share this article