Superhero Run surpasses $1 million for Niagara Children’s Centre

October 04, 2025

Superhero Run surpasses $1 million for Niagara Children’s Centre

11th annual event raises $174,092, bringing lifetime total to $1,031,120

St. Catharines, ON – Hundreds of Niagara residents donned their capes, masks, and superhero attire on Saturday, Oct. 4, at Brock University for Niagara Children’s Centre’s 11th annual Superhero Run. Together, participants, sponsors, and volunteers helped raise $174,092 — pushing the event’s lifetime fundraising total past the $1 million mark.

The accessible, family-friendly event drew nearly 700 people, including 150 volunteers and more than 350 participants who ran, walked, or rolled through courses designed for all abilities.

“It’s incredible to see the community come together in this way,” said Pam Sharp, Director of Development at Niagara Children’s Centre. “Not only did we raise vital funds that will directly support children and families, but surpassing $1 million over the life of this event is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when Niagara rallies together.”

Adding to the excitement this year was the debut of Sunny the River Otter, the Centre’s new mascot. Developed in consultation with staff, families, and supporters, Sunny embodies the organization’s values of resilience, inclusion, and teamwork.

 

“Sunny knows that every challenge can be met with determination, creativity, and a little bit of fun—much like the children and youth that we support,” Sharp said. “The response to their debut on Saturday was incredible, and we know Sunny will continue to bring joy and encouragement to the children we serve.”

That same spirit was reflected in Team Mighty Malcolm’s, one of this year’s standout family teams. Parents Dave and Mary-Kate DeWildt, along with sons Benjamin and Malcolm, rallied relatives and friends to support Malcolm, who has received care at the Centre since being diagnosed with infantile spasms, a rare form of epilepsy, at just five months old.

“Malcolm has had to work exceptionally hard to make progress, and we could not be prouder of him,” said Mary-Kate. “He’s just recently started sitting independently, which means he can engage with his surroundings so much more. Crawling will hopefully be our next big milestone.”

Through therapies such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language therapy, Malcolm has reached milestones that once felt uncertain. The Centre has also supported his transition into daycare, working with staff to ensure a safe, supportive environment.

“They’ve supported us every step of the way,” Mary-Kate added. “The team has been an incredible support, not only to Malcolm, but to us as a family.”

In their first-ever Superhero Run, the Mighty Malcolm’s finished as the top fundraising team, raising more than $6,700 for Niagara Children’s Centre.

 

The day also featured the popular 1K superhero-themed route, where families completed 10 accessible activity stations ranging from axe-throwing and bocce to obstacle courses and cone smashing. Children who finished the route proudly received a collectible medal as a keepsake of their achievement.

The Viola-Salter Group, a division of Scotia Wealth Management, returned as presenting sponsor for the 11th consecutive year. Partners Joe Viola and Grier Salter have been proud champions of the event since its inception, contributing to more than $200,000 raised over its history. They expressed gratitude to the community for its continued generosity and steadfast commitment to the Centre’s mission.

“We feel privileged to have been a part of this amazing event since day one and are so excited to see it continue to grow,” they shared. “Congratulations on your continued dedication to helping children and youth be their best.”

With the Superhero Run wrapped up for another year, the community is reminded that donations are always welcome by phone, in person, or online at niagarasuperherorun.ca.

To learn more about Niagara Children’s Centre and its services, visit niagarachildrenscentre.com.

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About Niagara Children’s Centre:
Niagara Children’s Centre provided rehabilitation and child development services to more than 5,900 children and youth last year across the Niagara Region with physical, developmental and communicative delays. The range of services include: physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language services, augmentative and alternative communication, family services and therapeutic recreation.

For further information, contact:
Michael Morrison, Marketing & Communications Officer
Phone: 905-688-1890 ext 260

Email: michael.morrison@niagarachildrenscentre.com

Photo captions:

Archway:
Participants start the 11th annual Superhero Run under the colourful archway at Brock University in support of Niagara Children’s Centre.

Sunny the River Otter:
Niagara Children's Centre debuts Sunny the River Otter, the organization's official mascot, at the Superhero Run.

Total Raised:
On Saturday, Oct. 4, Niagara Children’s Centre leadership, sponsors, and participants celebrated raising $174,092 at the 2025 Superhero Run — pushing the event’s lifetime total past $1 million.