Vancouver’s largest family fun run, RBC Race for the Kids, expands province-wide
A virtual race from home in support of childhood cancer and mental health initiatives at BC Children’s Hospital.
With over 2,500 registrants and counting, BC Children’s Hospital Foundation’s annual RBC Race for the Kids is going virtual again this year, opening the race to anyone from across the province to join the largest family fun run from the comfort of their own homes.
Designed to promote physical and mental wellness during the COVID-19 pandemic—for themselves as well as for children at BC Children’s—registrants are encouraged to get active with a month-long, action-packed activities calendar this May in preparation for the virtual race day celebration on Sunday, June 6. From dance parties to workouts with RBC Olympians, the virtual race is great way to keep kids and families busy while joining a movement to make a difference in the lives of children facing serious childhood health challenges in two areas—oncology and mental health.
For 35 years, the community has rallied together through the race—raising an extraordinary $15 million to improve the lives of our province’s kids and families.
“As the new president and CEO of BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, I am proud to be part of the race team and this incredible long-standing legacy,” said Malcolm Berry, President and CEO at BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. “I am so grateful to see the amazing show of support from across the province. By taking part in this race, you are supporting critical oncology and mental health initiatives that will directly improve young lives—and ultimately advance our efforts to conquer these childhood illnesses.”
The success of the event is only made possible with the generous support from our wonderful sponsors, especially the Foundation’s long-time supporter RBC and presenting sponsor of this year’s virtual race event.
“For over 30 years, RBC has been a proud supporter of BC Children’s Hospital. We passionately believe that when every single one of us comes together, from every corner of the province, we can make a real difference in the lives of children and families with serious illnesses,” said Martin Thibodeau, Regional President, RBC – British Columbia. “On behalf of RBC in BC and our more than 7000 employees, I am personally inviting all British Columbians to join myself and Team RBC on June 6 to help make this year’s event the best race ever.”
Registration is now open. In addition to gaining access to the month-long activities calendar and virtual access to the race day celebration on Sunday, June 6, registrants who register by Monday, May 24 will also receive a race-day package filled with items to help recreate the race experience at home, like their very own finish banner and medal.
“We personally know how important BC Children’s Hospital is as my daughter, Ophelia, was born with Bartter Syndrome, a rare kidney condition. Without the hospital as part of my extended family, Ophelia wouldn’t be the happy three-year-old she is today—and for that, we are truly grateful,” said AJ Delisle, RBC Community Manager, Victoria and two-time race participant.
Register today and together, we can make a difference in the lives of children. To register or donate, please visit RacefortheKidsBC.com.
About RBC Race for the Kids
The 2021 RBC Race for the Kids will take place as a fun-filled virtual race from home for the second year. The virtual event has been designed to promote ongoing physical and mental wellness, engaging participants from across the province in a month-long activities calendar throughout May. Then, on June 6 participants are invited to tune in to the virtual Race Day celebration before heading out to run or walk in their local neighbourhood.
BC Children’s Hospital Foundation’s signature running event has raised over $15 million since it began in 1986. Funds raised through the 2021 event will support childhood cancer programs and research as well as mental health initiatives.
About BC Children’s Hospital Foundation
BC Children’s Hospital is the only hospital in the province devoted exclusively to the care of children. As one of the few pediatric medical centres in North America with a world-class acute care centre, research institute, mental health facility and soon, rehabilitation centre, all on a single campus, BC Children’s provides specialized care, innovative therapies and expertise for BC’s kids, including the sickest and most seriously injured. At BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, we have a vision that every child is healthy and able to fulfill their hopes and dreams. The generosity of donors fuels our ability to help conquer childhood diseases, prevent illness and injury, and prioritize the unique needs of kids in every aspect of their care. Please follow us at @bcchf for more information.
About RBC
Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 86,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank, and one of the largest in the world based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our 17 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 34 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com.
We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-social-impact.