BAPS Charities hosted the 2026 Spirit of Service Walk-Run, uniting more than 50,000 participants across over 100 cities in Canada and the United States in support of local nonprofit organizations. The nationwide initiative highlighted the values of community service, volunteerism, and civic engagement in action.
On June 13, 2026, the BAPS Charities Walk-Run in Scarborough, Ontario, brought together over 700 participants for a day dedicated to service, health, and community engagement. The event encouraged individuals and families to come together in support of two beneficiaries: the William Osler Health System Foundation and the CNIB Foundation.
The William Osler Health System is one of the largest community health care 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.
Participants of all ages took part in the walk/run, reflecting the community’s shared commitment to service, health, and giving back. The event was honoured by the presence of the following elected officials and community leaders, who participated alongside volunteers and supporters to demonstrate their support for the charitable cause:
– Salma Zahid, Member of Parliament for Scarborough Centre-Don Valley East
– Aris Babikian, Member of Provincial Parliament for Scarborough-Agincourt
– Andrea Hazell, Member of Provincial Parliament for Scarborough-Guildwood
– Councillor Michael Thompson, Toronto City Councillor for Scarborough Centre
– Councillor Neethan Shan, Toronto City Councillor for Scarborough-Rouge Park
– Councillor Nimisha Patel, Markham City Councillor for Ward 7
– Representatives from Toronto Police Service 41 Division
MP Salma Zahid said, “Thank you to BAPS Charities, for organizing this to make sure that everyone gets the best of the healthcare here in Canada. For many decades, BAPS Charities have been doing this walk and have initiated many projects. So this year’s walk proceeds will go to William Osler Hospital and also to CNIB…Thanks to everyone who has joined today for this walk. Thanks to the kids who are spending their Saturday morning walking for a great cause…Thanks to BAPS Charities for this great initiative.”
MPP Aris Babikian said, “I am pleased to extend my warm greetings to all participants, volunteers, and organizers of the BAPS Charities Walk/Run 2026. This annual event reflects a remarkable commitment to community well-being and the spirit of selfless service, bringing people together in support of health awareness and meaningful charitable initiatives. I am especially encouraged by your continued support for the life-saving work of the William Osler Health System Foundation and the CNIB Foundation. The theme, ‘In the Joy of Others, Lies our Own, is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, unity, and shared responsibility in building stronger and healthier communities. I commend all those taking part in this initiative and wish you a successful and inspiring event.”
MPP Andrea Hazell said, “Thank you for bringing residents together through an event rooted in service, compassion, and collective action. The BAPS Charities Annual Walk/Run reflects the power of volunteers and community members working side by side to improve lives and support those in need. Your dedication to health, community well-being, and charitable services continues to make a meaningful difference across Scarborough and beyond. Wishing you a successful event and many more years of positive impact.”
Councillor Michael Thompson said, “I’m here, as you are, with this amazing organization BAPS Charities… You are national, not simply local. But you operate from a local perspective of giving, charity, respect, integrity. Canada is better because of you. Toronto is better because of you, and certainly this province is definitely better because of you. And so as we are here today to extend your reach into the broader community, because you’re not selfish, you are purposeful in your focus, wanting to help and extend your good wishes, your integrity, and your sense of peace and prosperity to all. So while the hospital, William Osler, will benefit, CNIBC will benefit, we will also benefit because we know what you do on a daily basis here. Charities in our community benefit, and I want to simply say this, on behalf of the City of Toronto and our mayor…We not only love you and all that you do in our community, we celebrate and support you. …So thank you very much for what you do.”
Councillor Neethan Shan said, “Through this inspiring initiative, BAPS Charities continues to promote health, volunteerism, and community engagement while supporting meaningful charitable causes that make a lasting impact on the lives of others. Your dedication to fostering unity and encouraging positive action continues to strengthen communities and inspire others to give back. I extend my sincere appreciation and best wishes for continued success.”
Through more than 1,200 walkathons organized over the past two decades, BAPS Charities has supported meaningful causes while fostering unity, compassion, and well-being in communities. The BAPS Charities Walk-Run continues to demonstrate how volunteerism and civic engagement can bring communities together and inspire future generations.
