Everyday heroes making a superhero difference

July 2022 

left photo: a family stands beside an individual dressed as a pink dinosaur Right photo: a group of family and friends surround a young girl who is a walker user

 

Everyday heroes, big and small, join forces each June by donning capes and costumes and embracing their superhero alter-ego in the week-long KidsAbility Superhero Challenge.

Nine-year-old Reilly and her parents decided immediately to rally support for KidsAbility, an organization with a special place in their hearts.

A preemie at birth and a Cerebral Palsy warrior, Reilly knows how important it is for other children to receive the right support at the right time.

Although she no longer receives services from KidsAbility, Reilly was looking for a challenge to give back.

She branded her team “The UniRunners” – to blend together her love of unicorns and staying active – and crushed an eight-kilometre walk aided only by her walker. She added two kilometres to complete her challenge goal, cheered on and surrounded by family, her teachers and her classmates.

“I want to help KidsAbility,” shared Reilly. With a confident grin, she added, “And to show that I can do anything!”

Together with a caring community who supported their goals, 71 fundraisers and 23 teams tapped into their superpowers and set challenge goals to run, walk, or wheel. Many navigated the suggested accessible routes throughout the region mapped specifically for the event.

Each June, KidsAbility Superhero Challenge is made possible by shared values to realize the potential of every child, like that of returning presenting sponsor and Guelph manufacturing company, Linamar Corporation. 

The company shares: "Linamar Corporation believes in KidsAbility as we believe in caring for the communities in which we live and operate. Together, we have the opportunity to make a difference, to instill change, to educate and to motivate. We believe in the Power to Perform."

“The Superhero Challenge is really about building community spirit across the regions we serve to encourage inclusive ways for all to take part,” explained Lisa Talbot, Executive Director, KidsAbility Foundation. “So many individuals, teams, event sponsors and prize providers demonstrated their deep commitment to KidsAbility. Their actions are all about caring for the communities in which they live, work, and play. For that we are so grateful for their support.”

Over $126,000 was raised during the Superhero Challenge to help more local kids and youth benefit from a variety of essential therapy programs and support services at KidsAbility.