In 2022, four OCDSB schools made a big impact in support of the Canadian Cancer Society. Students and staff at John McCrae Secondary School, Nepean High School, Osgoode Township High School, and Sir Robert Borden High School raised $272,695.31 by organizing Relay For Life Youth events. These events are designed to create hope for those living with and beyond cancer, and to show those on their cancer journey that they are not alone.
For 17 years, Osgoode Township High School has supported Relay For Life, becoming the second school in Canada to have raised over $500,000 in total for the cause! A dedicated team of students meets weekly throughout the year to plan the activities, connect with community partners, and get the whole school involved. In 2022, the Osgoode Township High School’s in-person Relay returned after two years of raising funds virtually. They raised $39,226 with activities including a walk with cancer survivors, karaoke, soccer basketball, Zumba, and more.
John McCrae Secondary School has been a supporter of Relay for Life for 13 years, raising a total of $501,048.10. A dedicated group of students and staff meet weekly to plan a fun-filled event to celebrate all of the funds raised that year. Past activities include inspirational speeches from cancer survivors, soccer tournaments, talent shows, capture the flag, Zumba, self-defence lessons, karaoke, and more. The planning team also connects with community members and businesses who play a valuable role in their event by donating prizes, food, and sponsorships. Last year, after having virtual events for two years, they were happy to return to an in-person event where they raised $56,449.67.
In its eighth year of participation, Nepean High School hosted a “party with a purpose," featuring activities like face painting, live music by students and teachers, and camaraderie-building contests and games. Over the years, the school has raised close to half a million dollars and welcomed numerous courageous survivors who have returned to speak at their events. Last year was their most successful fundraising venture, making them the third-highest fundraising school in Ontario.
Sir Robert Borden High School has been an avid supporter of Relay for Life for over six years. This past year, with the opportunity to re-introduce the in-person Relay for Life, the committee of passionate students was more determined and ambitious than ever. They ran multiple initiatives – from the Relay rally, to a barbecue fundraiser, to the final celebratory event with a student-teacher baseball game, tug-of-war, Zumba, and impactful speeches from cancer survivors. They worked with local businesses and community members to obtain vital sponsorships, encourage fundraising, and educate students about the importance of cancer research. This was their most successful fundraising campaign to date, raising nearly $60,000!
Well done to all of the students and staff for your efforts to support this important cause! Check out this gallery to see some of the Relay For Life activities that took place last year: