On August 9, 2025, BAPS Charities brought the community together in Brandon, Manitoba, for its annual “Spirit of Service: Walk-Run.” This inspiring event encouraged participants to step forward in support of the life-saving work of two national beneficiaries: the William Osler Health System Foundation and the CNIB Foundation, along with a local beneficiary, the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation.
This year’s walk united over 250 community members who came together to raise awareness and funds for health initiatives and other charitable activities organized by BAPS Charities. The event showcased a broad spectrum of participation, from youth to seniors, united for a common cause.
Special guests included Hon. Glen Simard, Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations and MLA for Brandon East; Wayne Balcaen, MLA for Brandon West; Mayor Jeff Fawcett, City of Brandon; and Jo-Anne Lewis, Executive Director, Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation.
The Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation is committed to raising funds to support healthcare needs in the region. Donations to the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation help fund a variety of purchases and projects within the community for the benefit of all who are served by the Brandon Regional Health Centre.
The William Osler Health System is one of the largest community healthcare systems in the country, comprising three integrated hospitals: Brampton Civic Hospital, Etobicoke General Hospital, and the Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health and Wellness.
The CNIB Foundation, formerly known as the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, is a non-profit organization that delivers innovative programs and advocacy for people impacted by blindness.
The event provided an opportunity for participants to promote and engage in a healthier lifestyle, while also reminding them of the profound impact that collective efforts can have in addressing local needs and challenges.
Hon. Glen Simard, Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations and MLA for Brandon East, said, “This is amazing—that you are giving up your time to walk with your families to raise money for the Regional Health Foundation so that people can get healthy, get the treatment they need, and have the right resources. So, to the kids, congratulations on your effort, and thank you very much for being here today. And for all of you who have donated your time, your effort, whether as a volunteer or an organizer, for all of the events that happen here. Doing your best to help those who need, walking for those who can’t, walking for the equipment for people to become healthier—I just think that is a really good example of what the community is all about.”
Wayne Balcaen, MLA for Brandon West, said, “Thank you very much. It’s great to be here with other guests and all of you. I appreciate the invite year after year—it’s great to be out here. But I think the most impactful message that I heard is ‘In the joy of others, you find your own.’ And I have to say that it’s great to donate, it’s great to help other people out, and this is the prime example.”
Mayor Jeff Fawcett, City of Brandon, said, “It’s always nice to be together with a whole bunch of Brandonites, and the BAPS Charities, and everyone that is here. Great contribution to the community always, and it’s a great value to have so many people. I love seeing all our young people…thank you all.”
Jo-Anne Lewis, Executive Director, Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation, said, “On behalf of the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation board of directors and staff, I want to thank all of you, BAPS Charities, for supporting the foundation. We are a regional health centre in Brandon, and your support will carry—it will support so many different programs and needs in the community… we are just so appreciative of your support.”
The BAPS Charities Walk-Run in Brandon is one of over 100 similar events held across North America as part of a broader initiative benefiting local organizations. For over 20 years, BAPS Charities has organized more than 1,100 walks, making a meaningful impact in communities by supporting important causes and promoting a spirit of service and unity.
