Habitat fundraiser run set for May 30
A community run and walk event set for next month aims to support affordable housing efforts in Carman-Dufferin, with local long-distance runner Chris Dick helping lead the initiative.
Habitat for Humanity Manitoba’s Carman-Dufferin chapter will host a Run & Walk Fundraiser on Saturday, May 30 at Ryall Park in Carman, with activities running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will bring together runners, walkers and families in support of Habitat’s ongoing work to build safe, affordable housing in the region.
Dick, also known locally as the “Carman Runner,” is helping champion the fundraiser and will take part in the day’s activities, including an ambitious personal goal of running 50 kilometres in support of the cause.
“My willingness to get involved with this Habitat for Humanity fundraiser mainly comes from motivation to just help my community,” Dick said. “I think Carman is a great place to live and if I’m going to push my efforts to run 50 km, I’d like to do it for a good cause locally.”
Dick said the cause resonates personally, particularly with a Habitat build planned close to his home.
“The fact that the future site for the new build is just a street over from where I live, I kind of feel a special connection,” he said. “If I can make a small impact for a family to get a start to owning a home, especially when it’s in my neighbourhood, then it’s a win for me.”
Dick’s involvement builds on a lifelong passion for running that began growing up on a family farm and continued through school track and cross-country programs. Over the years, he has competed in dozens of races ranging from five- and 10-kilometre events to marathons across Canada, the United States and Europe. More recently, he has taken on trail races and ultra-distance challenges, including a 50-kilometre run in Spruce Woods Provincial Park.
The “Carman Runner” identity has also become a recognizable presence in the community, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when Dick highlighted local businesses through social media posts, and continues today through his involvement with youth running programs.
Organizers say the event is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all ages and abilities, with participants encouraged to walk or run at their own pace while supporting a meaningful cause.
Dick said he hopes the event will strengthen community connections while highlighting Carman’s local trails and spirit.
“I hope this event will give a feeling of camaraderie to our community — when we come together for a common purpose, good things will happen,” he said.
Participants are invited to join for part or all of the day, with Dick completing five-kilometre loops that pass through Ryall Park.
“I would say, ‘come on down to join me on a walk or a run,’” he said. “Come for a while or come all day … encouragement of any sort would be appreciated to get me to 50 km.”
In addition to the run, the event will feature a raffle for an e-bike valued at $3,000, with tickets available for $20. The e-bike will be on site during the run. The raffle draw is scheduled for 4 p.m. on July 11 during the Carman Fair.
A barbecue and lunch service will also be available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., along with on-site registration, mini donuts and family-friendly activities. Donations will also be accepted throughout the day at the Ryall Park stage.
Funds raised will go toward Habitat for Humanity Manitoba’s efforts to provide affordable homeownership opportunities in the Carman-Dufferin area, with organizers hoping the event will help build momentum for future projects in the community.
Dick said community support is key to making both the event and future builds successful.
“I think events like this are really important for ways the community can offer support,” he said. “It’s another way to keep the awareness moving along towards the fundraising goal.”
More information about the fundraiser or raffle tickets is available by contacting the Carman Runner at carmanrunner@gmail.com or by following his Instagram account @carmanrunner. Tickets will also be available at Toews Printing.
