24 Hour Relay For The Kids Society

The 24 Hour Relay For The Kids Society is a registered Canadian charity with a Business Registration Number of 868325895RR0001. It is designated by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) as a public foundation, falling under the category of foundations that support beneficial community purposes[4].

Mission

The organization is primarily known for its annual Money Mart Easter Seals 24 Hour Relay, a national event that challenges groups of participants to run or walk for 24 hours. This event aims to raise funds to support children with disabilities, embodying the mission of making a significant difference in their lives through community-based fundraising[1][2].

History

The first 24 Hour Relay For The Kids was held in 1978 at Swangard Stadium in Burnaby, British Columbia. Initially organized by the Seawall Running Society, it involved 23 teams and raised over $70,000 to support Easter Seal camps. Today, the relay has evolved into a prominent national event, widely recognized as the Money Mart Easter Seals 24 Hour Relay[2].

Locations and Impact

The relay is conducted across eleven locations in Canada, including Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Regina, Quebec, Toronto, Halifax, Annapolis Valley, and St. John's. The event has collectively raised more than $51 million in support of local Easter Seals programs and services. In British Columbia, the relay specifically supports the BC Lions Society's Easter Seal camping program, benefiting camps such as Camp Squamish, Camp Shawnigan, and Camp Winfield[1][2][5].

Activities

The society engages in fundraising activities throughout the year, with the 24 Hour Relay being its most notable event. The Mount Seymour Lions Club has played a significant role in the event, operating a beer garden during the relay to contribute to the fundraising efforts[5].

Programs and Support

The funds raised by the 24 Hour Relay For The Kids Society support Easter Seal camps and related programs, providing essential services and experiences for children with disabilities across Canada. These programs enhance the quality of life for these children by offering them opportunities for recreation and social interaction[2][5].