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25 non profits will receive $1,000 thanks to Rotary's new challenge. (Daybreak Nanaimo)
STEP TO IT

25 for 25: Daybreak Rotary offers up $25,000 to Nanaimo non-profits

Jun 7, 2021 | 5:41 PM

NANAIMO — A local Rotary club is putting its money where its walking shoes are in a bid to better the community.

Daybreak Rotary is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2021 through a virtual walk-a-thon around Vancouver Island, offering $1,000 each to 25 non-profits in the mid-Island.

Bonnie Murrell, a Daybreak member, told NanaimoNewsNOW the money comes directly from the club and will be a big boost during a tough time.

“Our hope is because of the pandemic the $1,000 will be able to be used for their various programs. We’re hoping it can help the food bank, some groups are involved in advocacy and housing, they come from various pieces of our community.”

Participants in the walk-a-thon pay a $25 registration fee and compete in teams to virtually circumnavigate Vancouver Island, with a few detours along the way.

“They’re being asked to walk, run, cycle, skateboard or hike, just some sort of activity for a minimum of 25 kilometres over the month,” Murrell said.

As of Monday, June 7, the Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society led the Mid-Island Community Bands Society by just 22 kilometres.

Around 250 people are registered for the campaign, with 160 actively walking for their teams.

Each person’s registration fee can also be designated to go to one of the non-profit groups, increasing the total donation amount.

The campaign wraps on June 25 with Daybreak Rotary aiming to hold a small event at Maffeo Sutton Park in mid-July to recognize the winners.

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