The 2026 Run for L’Arche was nothing short of extraordinary!
Held on April 11 at Confluence Plaza, this year’s event marked a historic milestone for L’Arche Calgary. With 470 registered runners, it was the largest Run for L’Arche in our history. This is a powerful reflection of a growing community committed to inclusion, connection, and belonging.
From the very beginning of the day, there was electric energy in the air. With beautiful weather, enthusiastic participants, and an atmosphere full of encouragement and joy, the event felt like much more than a race, it was a true celebration of community. Runners of all ages and abilities came together to walk, jog, and run, united by a shared purpose: supporting people with intellectual disabilities and helping build a world where everyone belongs.
This year was especially meaningful as we welcomed Hudson Advisory Group, Scotia Wealth Management as our new title sponsor. This is the first time we have transitioned to a new title sponsor after 16 years of partnership with Rogers/Acera Insurance.
With this change came new challenges as a small but dedicated team of organizers stepped into a larger planning role and learned as they went. Their hard work, creativity, and commitment paid off in every detail of the day, resulting in a seamless and joyful event.
The partnership with Hudson Advisory Group carries a deeply personal connection. Senior Wealth Advisor Gareth Hudson addressed participants during the award ceremony alongside his family, including his brother Stephen, who lives in a L’Arche Calgary home. His words and presence brought a sense of warmth, authenticity, and love that resonated deeply. This partnership truly reflects the heart of L’Arche: relationships rooted in dignity, connection, and shared humanity.
The success of this year’s run would not have been possible without the incredible support of our community.
We are deeply grateful to the many volunteers who gave their time and energy to make the event possible. From course marshals to registration and finish line support, volunteers created a welcoming and well-organized experience. Many runners shared how much they appreciated their enthusiasm and care throughout the day.
This year’s event was proudly kicked off by our honorary Race Starter, Martin Parnell, whose story brought an added layer of inspiration to the day.
An internationally recognized speaker, author, and endurance athlete, Martin is perhaps best known for completing 250 marathons in a single year, a Guinness World Record achievement, and for raising more than $1.3 million through his Quests for Kids initiative. His dedication to using sport as a force for good aligns closely with the spirit of Run for L’Arche. At the starting line, Martin’s presence energized participants and set the tone for the day. His enthusiasm and commitment to community causes reminded us all that every step we take, whether running a marathon or walking a kilometre, can make a meaningful difference.
The Numbers
470 runners registered (our highest ever)
More than $65,000 raised in 2026
Over $860,000 raised since 2011
These funds directly support L’Arche Calgary’s homes, programs, and initiatives that foster belonging, dignity, and meaningful relationships for people with intellectual disabilities.
While fundraising is vital, Run for L’Arche is also about community connection.
This year, approximately half of all participants were new to the event, giving us the opportunity to share L’Arche Calgary’s mission with many new faces while reconnecting with longtime supporters. Every conversation, every step taken on the course, and every cheer from the sidelines helped spread awareness of L’Arche Calgary.
As L’Arche Calgary prepares for future changes through our home rebuild project, the success of this year’s run is both encouraging and inspiring. It shows what is possible when a community comes together with purpose and heart.
We also extend our thanks to our generous sponsors:
Title Sponsor
Hudson Advisory Group, Scotia Wealth Management
Sponsors
- Strides Running Store
- Startline Timing
- McLennan Ross LLP
- ServPro
- Matco Moving Solutions
- Calgary Italian Sportsmen’s Dinner Association
- 88.9 Shine FM
- Corus Media (QR Calgary, 107.3 The Edge, Country 105)
Run for L’Arche continues to be more than just a race. It is a celebration of inclusion, friendship, and the belief that everyone has something valuable to contribute.
Thank you to everyone who made this day so special.
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Together, we are building a world where everyone belongs.
