Students from Strathcona Christian Academy Secondary race to the finish line at the school’s annual Terry Fox School Run.

Sherwood Park, AB. — In the memory of Canadian icon Terry Fox and his inspirational dream, Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) students and staff are warming up for the 2023 Terry Fox School Run, taking place on September 22. EIPS schools plan to join close to 10,000 other schools and more than three million students across the country to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. Several schools have already held their runs.

Every year, students and staff take time out of their day to run, jog or walk a set distance for Fox’s goal. They also spend the month doing various fundraising activities as they learn about the values Fox displayed. “Terry Fox and his legacy touch the hearts and minds of many in our classrooms and communities,” says Cathy Allen, Board Chair of EIPS. “This year’s theme is Dear Terry, which asks people to share their own stories and messages of love, hope and inspiration.”

EIPS schools have participated in the Terry Fox School Run since 1992. Over that time, students and staff have raised substantial money for The Terry Fox Foundation. Last year alone, EIPS schools raised more than $57,000 with the community’s help. All funds raised during this year’s event will go directly to the foundation to support Fox’s dream of a world without cancer.

“Terry pushes students to persevere through hardship, stand courageous against adversity and come together to succeed,” says Allen. “All of these values contribute to a healthy and resilient mindset, empowering students to cross their own finish lines.”

Founded in 1981, the Terry Fox School Run has evolved into one of the largest fundraising events in Canada. To date, the foundation has raised more than $850 million and funded 1,300 projects on behalf of Fox’s legacy. EIPS congratulates all staff, students, volunteers and community members supporting this year’s Terry Fox School Run.

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,500 students in 42 schools. We are proud to be an integral part of our communities, including Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, Strathcona and Lamont counties, and the western portion of the County of Minburn.

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For more information contact:
Laura McNabb, Director, Communication Services, EIPS 780-417-8204 cell 780-405-4902