There are many ways to get involved in sport events, and ISIP Vancouver has a great tradition of supporting the Canada Running Series as volunteers. It gives us a chance to see firsthand how one of the largest races in Canada is organized, while also helping the runners and supporting the local organizations that the event raises funds for.
One of the undeniable highlights of the Canada Running Series is that the races are always held in some of the most beautiful locations. In June 2024, the Vancouver Half Marathon took place along the stunning Vancouver coastline, from UBC to Science World, passing through Point Grey, Jericho, and Kitsilano. Our volunteers were stationed at the nearly final stretch of the race, where support was especially crucial. We were in charge of the water station — handing out water to the runners and cheering them on during the last leg of the race.
It was a challenging but fulfilling job. It felt like we had run the half marathon ourselves — first alongside professional athletes who were racing for time, then with motivated semi-professionals, and finally with recreational runners who especially needed support on their way to the finish line. Since our shift started at 7 a.m. on Sunday, many of the volunteers had to wake up at 5 a.m. or even earlier to make it to Vancouver on time! Some even traveled from Surrey and Coquitlam — that's the dedication of our S.U.C.C.E.S.S. clients.
Volunteering is not only fun, but it’s also rewarding. All our participants received t-shirts, snacks, and certificates from the Canada Running Series.
We’ll definitely be joining the next event to dive back into this whirlwind of positive energy!