A NIGHT OF GIVING

The air was filled with excitement and anticipation as the doors to the 2023 Running Shoe Gala opened. It was a night of giving back, a night filled with laughter, games, and a healthy dose of altruism. Hosted for the first time in Calgary, Ever Active Schools welcomed over 100 guests to celebrate and contribute to our work supporting healthy futures for all children in Alberta and beyond.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

The night was filled with highlights and memorable moments. From the stunning decorations to the mouth-watering food and drinks, every detail was carefully planned to ensure that our guests had an unforgettable experience.

As our guests arrived, they were greeted with a glass of champagne and a photo booth where they could capture their memories of the night. The venue was the lush, green Enmax Conservatory in the Calgary Zoo, featuring signage and video elements showcasing Ever Active Schools’ work over the course of the year, which helped set the tone for the evening. In addition to the beautiful decorations, the centrepieces on all the tables were shoes decorated by kisikawipisim iskwesisak (or, Sunshine Girls Group), a wellness group from maskêkosak kiskinomâtowikamik for girls in grades 4-6. The food and drinks were delicious, with mouthwatering appetizers, entrees, and desserts that catered to every taste. Guests were treated to a beer-tasting experience provided by Born Brewing, who also supplied beverage options at the cash bar.

The evening continued with a silent auction that included generous donations by Air Canada Foundation, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts, and many more. After the meal, guests took part in a series of games and activities including trivia, mini golf, and more. Proceeds from the games added to the fundraising efforts of the evening, and overall game winners received prizes from Fast Trax Run & Ski Shop.

FUNDRAISING EFFORTS

The success of the Running Shoe Gala was made possible by the participation of our event partners, including Canadian Tire, Alberta Blue Cross, The Alberta Teachers’ Association, and the Alberta Medical Association. Their involvement was instrumental in making the event a success.

Through the support of our donors and partners, we were able to raise over $20,000 that will be used to support the ongoing work of Ever Active Schools.

THANK YOU!

We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to the volunteers, Julia, Kelly and Jennifer; performers Maycee (cello) and Chris (drums); and attendees who made the evening possible. Their contributions were instrumental in making our event a success.

The 2023 Running Shoe Gala was a night of giving that will be remembered for years to come. We are grateful for the support of our partners, donors, and volunteers, who helped to make the event a success. We look forward to organizing future fundraising events, and to continuing our work in the community. Thank you for your support!

You can visit the Running Shoe Gala event page to learn more about the event, see more photos from this year, and get involved in future events!