On Sunday, September 18th, the 25th Annual Ismaili Walk took place at Lumberman’s Arch in Stanley Park. Participants celebrated this milestone event in some great weather weather, alive with the spirit of service and caring for the community. British Columbians from across Vancouver attended the Walk, raising over $320,000. Over the past 2 years, the Ismaili Walk has raised over $550,000 to improve mental health care in our communities.
The walk was started by the Ismaili Muslim Community in British Columbia in 1992 as an initiative to help improve the quality of life in our local communities. This year, the Walk partnered with the Foundation and the Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division, to raise awareness and funds in support of the Joseph and Rosalie Segal Family Mental Health Centre and the Living Life to the Full for Youth programme.
“We are so grateful to Vancouver’s Ismaili community for this generous and inspiring support,” says Barbara Grantham, Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer. “This event helps us reduce the stigma associated with mental illness, and support family members and friends who struggle. The new Segal Centre, opening in August 2017, will be one of the world’s finest mental health facilities and a source of hope for many. The Ismaili Walk has played a role in making this Centre a reality.”
“Mental illness is something that impacts everyone in our community, and we are delighted to further the work of our partners to improve the quality of mental health care in our Province.” said Samir Manji, President, Ismaili Council for British Columbia. “By raising awareness and supporting critical facilities and programs, we are able to improve the quality of life of those individuals and families who are impacted by mental health challenges.”
The 25th Annual Ismaili Walk featured a full day of live entertainment, delicious meals, and activities for the entire family. Since its’ inception in 1992, the Ismaili Walk has become one of the city’s favourite family events, and thanks to the support and commitment of its partners, donors, and many thousands of volunteers, has raised over $4.8 million to support local initiatives.
About the Ismaili Walk
The Ismaili Walk was founded in 1992 by the Ismaili Muslim Community of BC and benefits a local organization. The event raises awareness and funds to further the mandate of partner organizations. To date, the Walk has raised over $4.8M for local community organizations that have included local hospitals, food banks, the Vancouver Public Library, Simon Fraser University, Habitat for Humanity, the Crisis Center of Greater Vancouver, United Way, the Women’s Health Research Institute (WHRI) at BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre Foundation, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and YWCA Metro Vancouver’s Cause We Care House.
