Two Local Charities Benefit from Inaugural Run With Responders 5K

Organizers and officials of the 2023 Run With Responders 5K presented two local charities with cheques for $4,700 each today.

The $9,400 total was raised during the inaugural Run With Responders 5K as part of FIREFEST 2023, which raised funds and awareness in support of first responders and their local charities of choice. Nearly three hundred individual runners and walkers of all ages took part in this unique first responder—themed charity run celebrating all frontline service providers.

“For 2023, our charities are Canadian Mental Health Association - Windsor-Essex County (CMHA-WECB) and Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Ontario, with 100% of the proceeds to benefit these two important charitable organizations,” said co-organizer Dave Orshinsky.

Windsor Police Service Chief Jason Bellaire, Windsor Fire & Rescue Services Chief Stephen Laforet and Essex-Windsor Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Captain Stacey Shepley were joined by event organizers at Windsor Fire & Rescue Goyeau Station to present their respective charities with cheques.

Funds raised support ongoing mental health education, training and awareness as part of the Sole Focus Project of the Canadian Mental Health Association. Many sessions are geared toward helping stakeholders like first responders, medical professionals, youth and caregivers.

“Mental health is key to our well-being, and we can’t be truly healthy without it,” said Canadian Mental Health Association’s Director, Communications Kim Willis. “It involves how we feel, think, act, and interact with the world around us. Mental health is about realizing our potential, coping with the normal stresses of life, and making a contribution to our community.”

The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics (LETR) engages law enforcement officers worldwide, championing acceptance and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities, starting first with their own communities.

The presenting partners of the Run with Responders 5K, 1K and Kids Dash is WFCU Credit Union and the Windsor Police Association.

“WFCU Credit Union is proud to sponsor FIREFEST 2023 Run with Responders 5K in support of CMHA-WECB and Law Enforcement Torch Relay for Special Olympics” said WFCU Credit Union President and Chief Executive Officer, Eddie Francis. We are committed to supporting organizations and individuals who contribute to the wellbeing of our community, and we would like to thank all of the dedicated emergency responders and police services staff who work tirelessly to make Windsor-Essex a better place to live and work.”

For more information on the Run With Responders 5K, individuals and companies may contact Dave Orshinsky at (519) 996-1012 by phone or dorshinsky@gmail.com by email.