I love BRIGHT Run Saturday at the Dundas Valley Conservation Area and I know all of you do too.
Last year, we were not able to meet in person for our annual BRIGHT Run “family reunion.” COVID-19 changed our plans. And so it goes again this year.
BRIGHT Run is going virtual, for the second year in a row, because the health and safety of all the members of the BRIGHT community is our primary concern. The difficult decision was made by our executive committee, composed of both healthcare providers and community volunteers.
COVID-19 continues to be an overwhelming concern for all of us. We hope the roll-out of vaccination will get back on track, but it seems clear that most of us will not be vaccinated by September. So BRIGHT Run 2021’s “family reunion” will be an exhilarating and safe on-line event that will bring us together, yet keep us a safe distance apart.
BRIGHT’s first pivot to virtual in 2020 demonstrated the spirit of determination and dedication within our BRIGHT world, from participants to volunteers to community partners to donors. It was a steep learning curve, but one that taught all of us what can be achieved when we embrace new experiences and challenges.
Our community partners stuck with us, providing the funds, goods and services that make our annual event possible. Our volunteers jumped in when the opportunities arose, making T-shirt pickup at LiUNA Station a wonderful, face-to face and safe event…masks and all.
And in a year when most charities hoped to raise 25 to 50 per cent of their goals, our participants came through with flying colours. The BRIGHT Run went above and beyond our $300,000 goal by more than $30,000. That is a testament to the determination, creativity and adaptability of all the members of our BRIGHT Run community. Congratulations and a huge thank you once again to everyone.
For 2021, we’re working on some new ideas to add to the fun. Keep an eye on our website, www.brightrun.ca, Like and follow us on Facebook and Instagram and sign up for our monthly eNewsletter here so you don’t miss out on anything.
So, let’s all go virtual together again! Let’s do it with that can-do spirit we have demonstrated since our first BRIGHT Run in 2008. Get your pink on, grab your gusto and let’s make BRIGHT 2021 the best and BRIGHTest ever!
