Runners and walkers take part in a past Run Myles Ahead event along the Boardwalk in the Beach. This year’s Run Myles Ahead is set to take place on Sunday, Oct. 4. Photo: Submitted.
Beach charity Myles Ahead, which raises awareness for child and youth mental health, is thanking those who contribute to the annual Run Myles Ahead charity walk/run set for this fall along the Boardwalk.
Founded in 2018 by Leslie Kulperger, Myles Ahead (Advancing Child & Youth Mental Health) was created in memory of her son, Myles, with a mission to improve mental health services and supports for children and youth.
What started with families and friends in 2018 in loving memory of Myles, Run Myles Ahead has developed into an annual local event supported by volunteers, youth teams, community partners and businesses.
Local businesses have played an essential role in Myles Ahead’s continued success, said Kulperger.
Michelle Walker and Matt Cassells, who run Walker Cassells Real Estate, have sponsored Myles Ahead for the past three years.
With their support, Myles Ahead has continued to extend its system work with its Nurturing Minds program, now reaching 10,000 educators across Canada. Over the summer, Myles Ahead has employed seven youth peer leaders, who have been working on guidelines for community youth hubs and an awareness campaign about online harms.
Matt Cassells said this about the importance of child and youth mental health and what Run Myles Ahead means to him:
“Mental health is every bit as important as physical health and every child deserves the opportunity to feel supported, understood, and equipped to thrive. The Run Myles Ahead event is a powerful example of what can happen when a community comes together around an important cause. It brings together families, supporters, volunteers, sponsors, and advocates who all share a common goal of advancing child and youth mental health.”
Other dedicated local supporters are Susan Rousell, her son Riley and friends, who have been a part of Run Myles Ahead since 2021 and have become one of the event’s top fundraisers.
“I run each year in loving memory of Mars, a dear friend of my son Riley, who we lost to suicide at just 14 in 2020. Mars’ mom is a close friend of mine, so this cause is deeply personal. While it’s an emotional day, the sense of community and positivity is incredibly powerful,” said Rousell.
Another community member making a significant impact is Ben March-Simpson, who organizes the popular bake sale each year in support of Myles Ahead. Ben and Myles were close friends growing up.
“My mom and I came up with the original idea to sell cookies to support Myles Ahead and bring joy to everyone who participates during the annual run,” said March-Simpson.
From Ben’s bake sale, a youth fair has also sprung up alongside the event, featuring Mabel’s Lemonade and Jokes Stand, crocheted crafts by Eve, sponsor tables and giveaways, and a community engagement activity.
This year’s Run Myles Ahead will take place on Sunday, Oct. 4, starting at 11 a.m. and registration is now open.
The five-kilometre walk and run will start at the Leuty Boathouse at the foot of Lee Avenue. The run follows the same route Myles would take his dog, Frida, along the Boardwalk.
Those who register for the run by Monday, Aug. 3, will go into a draw to win a pickleball net or a $100 Running Room voucher.
To register, volunteer, or fundraise for this year’s Run Myles Ahead, please go to https://mylesahead.ca/activities-events/
