Frequently asked questions

For any questions not answered below, please contact Kashia Malinowska, at 514 849-5331, extension 1215 or via email at kashia.malinoswka@ymcaquebec.org

1. What is the YMCA Challenge?

The YMCA Challenge is a walk and run event held in Montreal and Quebec City to raise funds in support of the YMCA Foundation.

This festive, family-oriented and inclusive event aims to raise $100,000, which will allow 600 vulnerable families to access Y programs and facilities, either through financial support or through companions to support clients with special needs.

Participants register for one of the 1km, 2km, 5km or 10km runs, or the 5km walk, and raise funds to be donated to their community.

The YMCA Challenge will take place in Montreal on May 6 at parc Maisonneuve and on June 3 at the parc linéaire de la Rivière-Saint-Charles in Quebec City.

Check out the schedule HERE.

2. Where and when does the YMCA Challenge take place?

 

Check out the schedule HERE.

3. Who can participate in the Challenge?

The walk and run challenge is open to everyone: children, adults, families, and businesses – anyone wishing to promote health and social equality in our communities, especially among our youth.

Participation in the event, as well as fundraising for it, can be done individually or in teams!

4. What are the funds raised for?​

The goal of the YMCA Challenge is to support accessibility and inclusion to the Y’s programs, including:

  • Providing financial assistance to vulnerable youth and children who would not otherwise be able to afford Y programs and facilities, particularly for camps and swim lessons.
  • Providing companionship for children with special needs in our day camps.
  • Introducing youth to the joy of movement and adopting healthy lifestyle habits.
 

Prior to the pandemic, there were over 7,500 youth, children, and adults who received over $1.27 million in financial assistance annually. When we reopened our facilities and programs in 2022, there was a significant increase of applications for financial assistance. More than ever, we need the community to come together in support.

5. Is this an in-person event?

Yes, the sporting event will be 100% in-person, both in Montréal and in Québec City. Everyone, participants and spectators, are welcome at this great, festive gathering. Many activities, games, presentations, and workshops will animate the site, rain or shine!

Fundraising is done online through the Participant Zone and can start right away.

6. What happens if it rains?

The event will take place rain or shine!

7. How do I register?​

To reserve your spot at the event, buy your ticket HERE.
To start fundraising, please click HERE and follow the instructions.

Do you need help ?
contact us at fondation@ymcaquebec.org

8. Can I register with my family or as part of a group?

Yes! To run in the challenge, it’s simple: you just choose the distance that suits you and the other members of your family.

For fundraising, you can create a page for each member or a single page for the whole family.

If this is the case, write “Family” in the first name field. This way, the registration will be done under the family name (ex. Family Lalonde, Family Vaillancourt, etc.).

9. Can I register with my co-workers?

Absolutely! To run in the event, it’s easy: you just have to choose the distance that suits you and your colleagues.

To fundraise, you can create a page for each member or create a single page for the whole team with a common goal.

If this is the case, write “Team” in the first name field, and the company name in the last name field. This way, the registration will be made under the team’s name (e.g., Team Desjardins, Team BMO, etc.).

It is recommended to subscribe to the Corporate Package with a minimum contribution of $2,500. This package includes the entries for the team members to the site as well as visibility for the company on the digital platforms of the event and the Y itself, as well as on the Challenge sites in Montreal and Quebec City.

10. Can children participate in the Challenge?

Yes, they can! With the exception of the 10km race, which is reserved for ages 12 and up, the YMCA Challenge is open to everyone of all ages, sizes, and physical condition. In addition, there will be multiple activities, games, presentations, and workshops to animate the event, rain or shine!

11. Can I participate without raising funds?

Yes! It’s possible to make a one-time donation without creating a fundraising page. Come celebrate with us on May 6 in Montreal or June 3 in Quebec City!

12. Can I contribute without participating in the run or walk?

Yes! Any contribution to the fundraising effort will be greatly appreciated. It’s also possible to make a one-time donation without creating a fundraising page. You can also come to the event without participating in the challenge.

13. Can I raise funds specifically for my Y center, zone, or program?

Yes. The funds raised at the various Y locations will be redistributed locally. So, by participating in the challenge, you can choose to support your local community or the entire network of The YMCAs of Québec.

14. My centre is not open. What will the donations be used for?

The funds raised will provide financial assistance to youth and families in Montreal and Quebec City who would otherwise not be able to afford to send their children to camps or enroll them in swimming lessons. The funds will also be used to provide companionship for children with special needs.

YMCA Holiday Raffle

Support youth in your community and get a chance to win fabulous prizes!