CIS Unites for the Terry Fox Run: Empowering Positive Impact

Challenging our children academically also comes naturally to educators. We set higher expectations for budding writers to add more details and sentence types to their essays. We provide more difficult math problems to those that go beyond grade level expectation. But there is a whole other angle to challenge that is far more important than academic growth and what can be set up in classrooms, and that is personal growth. This is the growth of one's life skills, which can include many aspects such as  emotional intelligence, self awareness, communication, problem solving, empathy, etc. These skills are much more relevant in being able to navigate life and its many twists and turns.

Service-Related Activities: Building Compassion and Empathy
At CIS, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the community is an integral part of our educational philosophy. The Terry Fox Run embodies this philosophy by offering students the opportunity to engage in service-related activities. Through organizing and participating in this event, students develop compassion and empathy towards those who are less fortunate.
 

The act of volunteering, whether it's setting up water stations, assisting with registration, or cleaning up after the event, instills in students the importance of giving back to society. This hands-on experience goes beyond classroom teachings, allowing them to witness the tangible impact they can have on the lives of others. It empowers them to become active citizens who are dedicated to making a positive change in the world.
 

Fundraising for Charitable Causes: Turning Compassion into Action
The Terry Fox Run is not just about running; it's about turning compassion into action. This event serves as a fundraising platform for cancer research—a cause that has touched the lives of many within our community. By participating in fundraising efforts, students learn the value of philanthropy and financial stewardship.

The act of soliciting donations, whether from family, friends, or local businesses, teaches students important life skills such as effective communication, networking, and teamwork. It also underscores the significance of collective efforts in making a substantial impact. These experiences prepare our students to be socially responsible citizens who understand the power of contributing to a cause greater than themselves.

Physical Fitness: Nurturing Healthy Habits
Beyond the charitable aspect, the Terry Fox Run promotes physical fitness—a fundamental component of a holistic education. In an age dominated by screens and sedentary activities, it's crucial to instill in our students the importance of a healthy lifestyle. This event encourages students to embrace physical activity and appreciate the benefits it brings to their overall well-being.
Participating in the run allows students to set personal fitness goals and work towards achieving them. It fosters a sense of discipline, perseverance, and self-improvement. It also highlights the importance of teamwork and camaraderie, as students come together to support each other in their fitness endeavors.

Community Building: Strengthening Bonds
The Terry Fox Run is more than just a charity event; it's a celebration of our school community. It brings together students, teachers, parents, and alumni in a common cause. The shared experience of preparing for and participating in the run strengthens the bonds that hold our community together.
Through the run, students develop a sense of belonging and pride in their school. It's a day when the entire community can unite, regardless of age or background, to work towards a common goal. This sense of togetherness extends beyond the event itself, creating a lasting sense of community and support that permeates throughout the school year.

Conclusion
The annual Terry Fox Run at CIS is not just a run; it's a celebration of compassion, action, fitness, and community. It embodies the values we hold dear—service, philanthropy, health, and unity. As we gather each year to commemorate Terry Fox's courageous journey and raise funds for cancer research, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals who are not only academically accomplished but also socially responsible and physically fit.

This event serves as a reminder that education goes beyond the classroom, transcending textbooks and exams. It is about shaping individuals who are equipped to make a positive impact on the world. The Terry Fox Run is a shining example of how a school community can come together to create a brighter future for all, one step at a time.