Joy In Action

1. When does the Joy in Action fundraising challenge take place?

The Joy in Action fundraising challenge runs from April 1 to October 1, 2026. Fundraising, team challenges, and participation take place throughout this period.

2. What are the official Joy in Action events?

Official events are in-person community events held in Manitoba:

Steinbach – July 25, 2026 (4 km or 8 km Run/Walk), Steinbach Soccer Park

Brandon – August 8, 2026 (5 km Run/Walk), Riverbank Discovery Centre

Selkirk – August 22, 2026 (3.5 km or 7 km Run/Walk, 35 km Cycle), Selkirk Park

Each official event includes:

• A timed competitive race at 8:30 AM
• A fun run/walk and Selkirk has a cycle at 10:00 AM
• Fun Stations along the course
• Awards and prizes

3. What is the difference between the competitive timed race and the fun run/walk?

The competitive race is a timed event with awards for top finishers and age-group recognition.
The fun run/walk is untimed and designed for participants of all ages and abilities, focusing on participation, encouragement, and joy.

4. Are there prizes at the events?

Yes.

Competitive races award:

• Top 3 male and female finishers
• Age-group recognition

Fun run/walk/cycle awards celebrate joy and participation, including recognition for creativity, encouragement, teamwork, and kindness.

5. What are Joy Stations?

Joy Stations are optional, interactive areas placed along official event courses. They are designed to create a fun, encouraging atmosphere through cheering, playful interaction, music, and celebration. Participation is optional and suitable for all ages.

6. Do I receive a shirt when I register?

Yes! Official event participants receive an official Joy in Action event shirt (while supplies last; late registrations not guaranteed).

7. What fundraising incentives can I earn?

Fundraising incentives are available to all participants

• Any Official Event Participant who:
  • Raises $150→Official Joy in Action Performance Hat
  • Raises $300→Official Joy in Action Hoodie

Incentives are earned per individual, even when participating as part of a team. Incentives are to be collected at the race/event package pickup for Official Event participants.

8. Are there Grand Prizes for the fundraising challenge?

Yes. Grand prizes are awarded based on fundraising totals across the entire Joy in Action challenge period (April 1 – October 1, 2026).

Grand prize categories include:

• Top Fundraising Team— awarded to the team that raises the highest total amount during the challenge period
• Top Individual Fundraisers— prizes awarded to1st, 2nd, and 3rd place individual fundraisers based on total funds raised

Grand prize details will be announced closer to the event.

9. How do I collect donations?

Participants can collect donations through:

1. Their personal Joy in Action online fundraising page, or
2. Official offline donation forms

10. Do entry fees count as a donation?

Registration fees are not charitable donations. Donations made through the Joy in Action fundraising platform may be eligible for a tax receipt.

11. Will donors receive a charitable tax receipt?

Yes, any donation over $20 will receive a charitable donation tax receipt

12. What if I can’t attend an official event?

Supporters across Canada are encouraged to participate through virtual events. Virtual participants can run, walk, or cycle anywhere and are also eligible for fundraising incentives and grand prizes. To learn more, go to https://raceroster.com/events/2026/115854/joy-in-action-virtual-runwalkcycle-fundraising-challenge

13. Can children participate?

Yes.

Children can participate in all running and walking events.

Children must be at least 12 years old to participate in the Selkirk to Netley Creek Cycle.

• Children 12 and under may participate for free when accompanied by a registered adult.
• Youth 13–18 may register independently in youth categories and receive a $10 discount at registration.

14. Do I need to fundraise to participate?

Fundraising is encouraged but not required to participate. However, only participants who fundraise are eligible for fundraising incentives and grand prizes.

15. What does my fundraising support?

Funds raised support prevention education, awareness initiatives, and survivor-focused work addressing human trafficking in Canada.

16. How much does it cost to register for an official Joy in Action event?

Timed Runs (Competitive – 8:30 AM start)

Adults

• Earlybird $40 (–$5 MRA discountfor MRA members)
  Until May 31, 2026
• Regular $50 (–$5 MRA discountfor MRA members)
  From June 1 to two weeks before the event for which you are registered
• Late Registration $65 (–$5 MRA discount for MRA members; no shirt guarantee)
  From two weeks before the event until race package pickup

Youth (13-17) $10 discount off all prices

Children (12 & under) Free when accompanied by a registered adult (no shirt)

Fun Run / Walk / Cycle (10:00 AM start):

Adults

• Earlybird $30 (–$5 MRA discount for MRA members)
  Until May 31, 2026
• Regular $40 (–$5 MRA discount for MRA members)
  Until two weeks before the event for which you are registered
• Late Registration $55 (–$5 MRA discount; no shirt guarantee)

Youth (13-17) $10 discount off all prices

Children (12 & under) Free when accompanied by a registered adult (no shirt)

17. Are registrations refundable or transferable?

Registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.

18. How will I receive updates and event information?

Registered participants will receive email updates with important information. Event details, schedules, and updates will also be posted on the Joy in Action website.