Community comes together for first Little Big Run to support local youth mentorship

Families and community members set off on the course at the first-ever Little Big Run, held July 12 at Beavermead Park. Photo by Marina Kydd.

On Saturday, July 12, Beavermead Park was alive with energy as the inaugural Little Big Run brought together people of all ages to raise funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough. This new fundraiser aims to support local mentorship programs that connect youth with caring volunteers.

Executive Director Zoe King shares that the event was inspired by the spirit of community runs she has participated in elsewhere. “We’re all about supporting one another and making sure everyone has a place,” King said, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the run.

Mentors like Emily, who ran alongside her mentee Logan, appreciate the event’s role in building awareness.

Board chair Tom Jenkins highlights the importance of such gatherings to strengthen the volunteer network and fund critical programming.

Even Peterborough’s Member of Parliament, Emma Harrison, took part with her young children, underscoring the community-wide support for the cause.

The Little Big Run demonstrated the power of coming together to uplift local youth through mentorship, with hopes to grow into a signature event for the city.