This weekend, Northumberland YMCA’s Rainbow Run returns to kick-start Pride Month – and the Y is hoping the community will answer the call and make a difference for thousands across the county.
Marking its third year, the event is set for Sunday, June 1 starting at the Cobourg Yacht Club.
Runners and walkers will lace up and wind through the waterfront area and then light up downtown as part of their trek.
Manager of philanthropy Zoey Read says the Y is “incredibly excited” about the Rainbow Run’s return.
“We’re very honoured to be hosting this event this year, and it is in support of the YMCA Northumberland’s Strong Communities campaign,” adds Read.
Read tells us more about why this campaign is so crucial in the community.
And not to fret if you’re just hearing about it, registration is still open – people can register on the day of or online in advance.
Meanwhile, if you can’t lace up for the colourful celebration, you can still show your support through to June 2, notes Read.
With multiple Northumberland businesses, residents and partners stepping up with donations, the online auction has roughly two-dozen items for residents to browse through and bid on.
Just like with the run, participating in this auction is helping to create access and hope through the Strong Communities effort, which stands to once again help thousands across Northumberland, including kids, youth, families, and seniors.
Read tells us more about some of the goodies included in the auction.
Ultimately, all funds raised help to strengthen the whole community, and open doors to critical programs, services and opportunities for residents, regardless of financial situations, background or sexual orientation, explains the Y.
You can check out the auction now and everything you need to know about the run and Y is also accessible via the YMCA website.
Check-in on Sunday is 8:30 a.m. Race time is 9:30 a.m. There are 2.5- and 5-kilometre options.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
