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Algoma Family Services Foundation announces inaugural marathon event

Participants will have the opportunity to run/walk one of three distance options – 21 km, 42 km, or 61 km – over two weeks
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In order to raise awareness of and funds for mental health services in the community, the Algoma Family Services (AFS) Foundation will host its inaugural Run for Mental Health.

The foundation hopes to make the marathon and half marathon running event an annual fundraiser, a release issued today by AFS states.

The event kicks off on Saturday, June 26.

"The event will consist of three distances (km): BP-21, BP-42 and for those who want to run the ultimate marathon the BP-61," the release says. "As a modified event this year, you’ll have the opportunity to run/walk your distance over two weeks."

"The BP distances are named in honour of local youth, Brett Provenzano, who suddenly and tragically lost his life on June 26, 2010 at the age of 15."

Full text of the news release follows:

The Algoma Family Services (AFS) Foundation has become synonymous the last few years for raising awareness for mental health while providing the citizens of Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding area with a physical outlet for your mental health while raising funds to support the AFS Foundation and the mental health of others.

This year we are proud to announce the first annual AFS Foundation Run for Mental Health. The event will be an annual marathon and half marathon running event taking place on June 26. This year’s event will be a modified individual event due to COVID-19 restrictions that can take place anytime over two weeks, ending July 10.

The new Run for Mental Health supports the programs and services of Algoma Family Services (AFS). This event promotes awareness and provides much-needed funding for early intervention and prevention programs for infants, children and youth struggling with mental health challenges.

The Run for Mental Health is an all-age event with multiple distances available. The event will consist of three distances (km): BP-21, BP-42 and for those who want to run the ultimate marathon the BP-61. As a modified event this year, you’ll have the opportunity to run/walk your distance over two weeks.

“We want everyone to be able to participate in and enjoy this event. Physical activity is an important component to support our mental health. Whether you walk, jog, run or use a walking assisted device, there is a spot for you on our team,” said, event organizers.

The BP distances are named in honour of local youth, Brett Provenzano who suddenly and tragically lost his life on June 26, 2010 at the age of 15. On that day, our board chair Sonny Spina, a police officer at the time, responded to the call for assistance and immediately became connected with the Provenzano family. That connection has continued over the past decade in many ways including Gail Provenzano, Brett’s mother, and Sonny enjoying running together.

Beginning this year, and with the help of the Provenzano family, June 26 will be a day for raising awareness and funds to help local youth who are struggling with mental health challenges, while celebrating Brett and the lasting impact his life had on our community.  

As a first-time event, there is no set cost to participate. Participation will be by donation or individuals can choose to raise pledges. Donation receipts will be provided for any amount donated over $20. Please feel free to donate online.

If you would like to provide a donation by cash/cheque (cheques made payable to the AFS Foundation) it can be dropped off at the AFS Foundation office at 205 McNabb St. Please put the donation in an envelope addressed to the Foundation and include information for a tax receipt if necessary.

For more information about the event please visit our social media pages Facebook, Instagram or email [email protected].



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