Over a Quarter Million Dollars Raised for People with Down Syndrome

Following two years of successful virtual events, Run Up for Down Syndrome presented by Eurorite returned in person for 2022 – and even the rain couldn’t wash away the smiles or dampen the enthusiasm of the participants.

Records fell by the wayside, as this year’s Run goes down as the most successful fundraising event in the 27-year history of the Down Syndrome Resource Foundation.

1,089 runners representing 73 teams took part – both of which are new high water marks for the Run. The event is DSRF’s first ever quarter-million-dollar event, with $256,000 raised so far (and more expected to still come in).

Teenage girl with Down syndrome wearing turquoise t-shirt stretches out arms in front of crowd

One parent, whose family attended the Run for the first time, shared, Run Up for Down Syndrome was “such an amazing event. Many people said how terrific it was and most of all how safe and relaxed parents felt at not having to be on guard about their kids. As parents, we don’t always get to be out and have our kids/family members not only accepted but welcomed and celebrated.”

Along with the runners, the record-setting success of the event is due in large part to our generous event sponsors, including presenting sponsor EuroRite, Upper Canada Forest Products, LiUNA Western Canada, CTV, Prospera Credit Union, Return-It Express, Allwest Insurance, The MacKenzie Room, Spirit Ridge Resort, Kintec, KPMG, Save on Foods, B Fit Personal Training, Outback Team Building and Training, and the City of Burnaby.

Special thanks as well to our incredible volunteer team including SFU Hockey, which provided serious muscle for set-up and tear down. And as always, Run Up for Down Syndrome wouldn’t be the same without emcee extraordinaire John Crosby, who was ably assisted on stage by DSRF Ambassador Chris Sayer.

To each and every individual and organization who contributed in any way, thank you for supporting people with Down syndrome to flourish and thrive. We look forward to seeing you back at the start line in 2023!

Click here to view the 2022 Run Up for Down Syndrome photo album – all photos by our multi-talented Lead OT Hina Mahmood!