How can you support Ottawa’s First Responders through 9runrun?
- Volunteer! 9runrun can’t happen without the amazing support of volunteers! We have lots of opportunities for you to give your time for a great cause.
- Fundraise! Sign up as an individual fundraiser or as a team and raise funds for the Ottawa First Responders Foundation. All funds go directly to the Foundation. You can choose this option during registration.
- Donate! Every 9runrun participant has the option to donate at the end of the registration form. Please consider giving any amount to support the mental health of Ottawa’s First Responders and their families.
- Buy and wear your shirt or cap! Help bring awareness to Ottawa First Responder’s Foundation and its initiatives by wearing 9runrun merchandise. Both shirt and cap are available for purchase during registration.
- Share 9runrun with your networks. Email your colleagues, share the event on social media, and help spread the word about 9runrun and Ottawa First Responders Foundation. Any effort is much appreciated.
About Ottawa First Responders Foundation
Research from a 2017 University of Regina study showed that 45% of first responders screen positively for 1 or more mental health disorders, compared to the general population at a rate of 10%. The majority of these disorders are rooted in mental injury sustained while on the job.
Ottawa First Responders Foundation was created to proactively address mental health within the first responder community.
As an organization, we aim to augment current mental health services by providing additional peer support, informed clinical support and education across all Ottawa First Responders. Our goal: help First Responders thrive by providing a standardized, unified, and funded support group within the first responder community, retirees and veterans of the community, and stakeholders.
In order to be effective in the battle against mental injuries, we also need to be PROACTIVE. We provide programming that helps Ottawa First Responder personnel and their families develop resilience, recognize the warning signs of an issue, and what to do when they need help. To find out more, please visit: ottawafrf.ca