BARRIE, ON — With shoes tied and spirits high, runners and walkers of all ages gathered at Barrie’s scenic lakeshore Sunday morning to take part in the fourth annual Run for Barrie, an event combining the joy of physical activity with a meaningful cause—supporting the Barrie Food Bank and raising awareness about food insecurity.
Organized by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA), the community-driven event brought together approximately 100 participants who chose to complete one-, three-, or five-kilometer routes along the city’s waterfront. There was also a family walk option, offering something for everyone regardless of age or ability.
A Morning of Movement and Meaning
Participants began arriving early, some warming up and stretching as early as 8 a.m. to prepare for the scenic yet purposeful run. Among the first to arrive was Mariah Grottoli, a local runner who heard about the event through Race Roster, a popular event registration platform.
“I took part in the Honda Waterfront half marathon recently and I wanted to do another run,” Grottoli said. “This is a great way to be part of something bigger—helping the community while doing something I love.”
For Grottoli and many others, Run for Barrie wasn’t just about the physical challenge. It was a chance to contribute to a greater cause and foster a sense of connection in the city of Barrie.
A Global Spirit with Local Impact
The event is part of AMYA’s nationwide Run for Canada initiative, which has raised over $1 million for charitable causes across the country. Run for Barrie specifically supports the Barrie Food Bank, an essential resource in the community that works tirelessly to aid individuals and families dealing with food insecurity.
Speaking on behalf of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association, Ihtisham Rana emphasized the group’s commitment to service and community support.
“We are a Muslim organization, and in our Islamic values, we believe that wherever we reside, we should try to support that area, support the people there, and serve our nation,” said Rana. “That is what we are here for, and it’s our duty.”
Empowering Through Service
Run for Barrie reflects more than just physical fitness—it represents civic responsibility, inclusiveness, and compassion.
“Everyone should consider it a duty,” Rana said. “If you’re in a place where you have a little bit more to offer, where you have a little bit more privilege than others, I think it’s a duty that you serve and give out a helping hand. That’s why we do it.”
This year’s goal was ambitious: to raise over $10,000, surpassing last year’s impressive total of just over $8,000. The funds will go directly toward the Barrie Food Bank’s ongoing mission to alleviate hunger in the local community.
Stories from the Trail
Participants came from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, united by a shared purpose. Vanessa Serradas, a Barrie resident originally from Brazil, was among those lacing up her sneakers on Sunday.
“I used to participate in similar events back in Brazil,” Serradas shared. “I picked up the sport again about a year ago and was looking forward to completing the three-kilometre portion of today’s event.”
Serradas, like many others, cited both personal and philanthropic reasons for joining the run. “I also wanted to participate because of the reason—to donate as well. I really like to help others with these events, and I think it’s really important… and also do some activity,” she added.
Her story echoed the motivations of many runners on the trail—people moved by the dual appeal of contributing to a cause while enjoying outdoor activity with others in their community.
Youth Leadership in Action
Run for Barrie also serves as a powerful example of youth leadership in community building. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association, which led the initiative, is made up of young men who dedicate their time to organizing humanitarian events across Canada.
The group promotes values of service, inclusiveness, and empathy, and has been especially active in creating projects that combat poverty, promote education, and foster understanding between communities.
Rana expressed his appreciation for the local support and reiterated AMYA’s broader mission: “It’s about encouraging young people to give back, to step up, and to be leaders in their communities. This is how we build a stronger society.”
Local Support and a Shared Vision
The event received strong backing from local organizations and volunteers, whose support helped make the day a success. From registration tables to water stations, volunteers were on hand to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for all participants.
Though still modest in scale compared to major marathons, the Run for Barrie has grown significantly in its four-year run. What began as a small, grassroots effort has evolved into an annual community tradition that captures the heart and values of Barrie residents.
Promoting Health, Unity, and Giving
At its core, Run for Barrie represents a convergence of wellness, social action, and spiritual values. It’s a day where personal goals meet collective aspirations, and where every step on the trail moves the community closer to a more supportive and compassionate future.
“Giving back should be second nature,” said Rana. “If each one of us takes on the responsibility to help others, we can truly create change—not just for today, but for future generations.”
Looking Ahead
As the final runners crossed the finish line and the morning gave way to a warm summer afternoon, the event’s impact was already being felt. Whether it was through donations, shared experiences, or a sense of belonging, participants left knowing they had contributed to something meaningful.
With goals of exceeding $10,000 in donations and growing participation in the coming years, the organizers are already looking ahead to the next edition of the run.
“This isn’t just a one-time event,” said Rana. “It’s about establishing a culture of service in our city—where people care about one another, support each other, and look for opportunities to uplift those around them.”
Check out the upcoming charity runs by Mercy 4 Mankind.
