Run With Responders 5K Raises $10,500 for Local Charities

The 2025 Run With Responders 5K has successfully raised over $10,500 for three local charities. The event, held on July 27 along Windsor’s picturesque riverfront trail, attracted around 400 participants, including a notable presence of first responders. Each of the benefiting organizations—the Canadian Mental Health Association – Windsor-Essex County Branch (CMHA-WECB), the Windsor Firefighters Benefit Fund, and the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics Ontario—will receive $3,500 from the proceeds.

Event co-chair Dave Orshinsky emphasized that the funds raised were entirely directed to these charities, although he noted that this year’s total was slightly lower than in previous years. “We faced some economic challenges that may have affected participation,” Orshinsky explained. “But $3,500 for each of the charities is still fantastic.”

The 5K event also featured a children’s dash and an 800-metre run, sponsored by AM800, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere. Orshinsky highlighted the strong camaraderie among participants. “We had 125 first responders take part, including local responders and those who traveled from Michigan and across Ontario,” he said.

The event serves not only as a fundraiser but also as a team-building exercise for first responders. “It’s important to bring them together and help change the conversation around how the public views first responders,” Orshinsky noted. “Their jobs can be incredibly challenging, and we want to support them in every way we can.”

Looking ahead, Orshinsky confirmed that the Run With Responders will return next year, scheduled for July 26, 2026. The success of this year’s event demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the Windsor community to support local charities and foster goodwill among first responders.