This September, London, Ontario will do more than host a run—it will host a movement.
On Saturday, September 13, hundreds of participants will gather at Springbank Park for the highly anticipated Run For London event, organized by Mercy 4 Mankind, a humanitarian initiative of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA). This annual community-run fundraiser has a clear purpose: to raise vital funds in support of the Children’s Health Foundation.
In an age when it’s easy to feel powerless against rising health care needs—especially among children—Run For London offers a simple, powerful way to give back. It brings people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities together in a united effort to support the most vulnerable members of our community.
A Cause That Needs Us Now
The Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre serves more than 57,000 young patients every year. These children come from across Southwestern Ontario, often facing life-threatening illnesses, traumatic injuries, or urgent mental health crises. And the demand for services is only growing—particularly in youth mental health, where waitlists are long and resources are stretched thin.
Run For London channels collective community energy into tangible support. Funds raised will help provide critical medical equipment, expand mental health programs, and ensure that families facing the unimaginable are not alone. Every dollar raised becomes a lifeline for the children who depend on the hospital’s care.
This year’s event is about more than fundraising. It’s about action. It’s about standing up as a city and saying: we see these children, and we’re here for them.
What to Expect on Race Day
Set against the scenic backdrop of Springbank Park, Run For London offers a range of race options to make sure everyone can participate. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-time participant, there’s a place for you at the starting line.
Participants can choose from:
- 3K Run
- 5K Run
- 10K Run
The event kicks off in the early morning with registration, followed by an opening ceremony and staggered race start times. Participants are treated to a post-run lunch, a medal ceremony, and an uplifting, community-focused atmosphere.
The run is not only for athletes. Families, seniors, children, students, and corporate teams are encouraged to take part. Strollers, walkers, and cheerleaders are all welcome. For those who are unable to participate in the run itself, volunteering or donating are equally meaningful ways to contribute.
Powered by Mercy 4 Mankind and AMYA
Run For London is powered by the commitment and compassion of Mercy 4 Mankind, a branch of AMYA that channels Islamic values of service, empathy, and civic responsibility into real-world impact. Across Canada, AMYA has raised millions of dollars for Canadian charities, hospitals, and disaster relief efforts through events like this.
Mercy 4 Mankind operates on the principle that serving humanity is a moral duty. Its members—primarily youth—devote time and energy to building bridges within their communities. Run For London is a prime example of that mission in action: an inclusive, grassroots initiative that benefits everyone, regardless of faith, background, or status.
“This event is our way of giving back to the city that has given so much to us,” says a local AMYA organizer. “We believe in standing with our neighbors in times of need. Children’s health is a cause we can all rally around.”
Giving Back to Move Forward
Run For London is more than a race. It’s a symbol of what’s possible when a city decides to act. It’s a call to lace up your shoes—not just to run, but to take a stand for children who can’t always stand for themselves.
The event offers participants the opportunity to:
- Support critical pediatric health care in their community
- Promote healthy, active living
- Build relationships with others who care about making a difference
- Be part of a growing legacy of compassion and impact
Whether you’re running for a sibling, walking in memory of a loved one, or simply showing up to help, your involvement matters. Every step taken on September 13 helps move a child closer to healing.
How to Get Involved
- Register: Sign up today. Choose your distance, pay a small entry fee, and start training.
- Fundraise: Ask friends and family to sponsor your run. Every dollar makes a difference.
- Donate: Can’t attend? Make a direct donation to the Children’s Health Foundation through the event website.
- Volunteer: Join the event team and help make race day a success.
- Share: Spread the word through your workplace, community group, or social media.
The Run For London team encourages everyone to bring their energy, their enthusiasm, and their commitment to this event. With hundreds expected to attend, this promises to be one of the city’s most inspiring moments of the year.
Final Thoughts
At its heart, Run For London is about community. It’s about looking around, recognizing the needs of others, and deciding to act. It’s about choosing to believe that one step, one runner, one act of generosity can ripple outward into something far greater.
On September 13, the people of London will run not for medals or personal bests, but for something much more important—hope, healing, and the health of our children.
Visit our upcoming charity runs.
