BEING A MAN -ANNUAL MARATHON RELAY FOR MEN & BOYS

Dear Esteemed Donors,

The journey from boyhood to manhood is one of life's most important relays. For the past two years, with your incredible support, we have created a space for this journey to be celebrated, supported, and honoured. The "Being A Man" Annual Marathon Relay is more than a race; it's a moving, breathing symbol of community, endurance, and the powerful bond between generations of men.

As we look towards our third annual event, we are filled with excitement for the lives we can impact. This quarter has been dedicated to laying the groundwork for another successful marathon. However, in the spirit of transparency that defines our partnership, we must also share that we are at a critical juncture. Our preparations have begun, but we face a significant funding challenge to bring this vision to life.

We believe in this mission, and we know you do too. Thank you for taking the time to read this update and for considering how you can help us reach the finish line.

The purpose of the BEING A MAN - ANNUAL MARATHON RELAY is to create a meaningful, supportive environment where men and boys can explore and celebrate the rituals of passage from boyhood to manhood. We use the Marathon Relay Race as both a literal and metaphorical journey, emphasizing endurance, teamwork, and the spirit of community that carries us through life's greatest challenges.

While navigating funding uncertainties, our team has been diligently working to ensure we are prepared. Our progress this quarter includes:

• Securing Tentative Dates: We have provisionally scheduled the Third Annual Marathon Relay for Friday, November 21st, and Saturday, November 22nd, 2025.

• Initial Event Planning: We have begun developing a safety and logistics plan, and creating a framework for volunteer coordination.

• Community Outreach: We have started initial conversations with past community partners and volunteers to gauge interest and support for this year's event.

The passion and the plan are in place, ready to be activated.

We are currently confronted with a significant funding shortfall. The resources we have on hand are not nearly enough to cover the essential costs of hosting an event of this scale safely and effectively.

To make the Third Annual Marathon Relay a reality, we urgently need support to cover key expenses, including:

• Event venue

• Race course safety and security personnel

• Bibs, timing equipment, and relay batons

• Hydration and first-aid stations

• Volunteer support (vests, meals, coordination)

• Promotional materials to ensure strong community participation

Without securing additional funding, we will be unable to proceed with the event as planned, and this powerful tradition will be put on hold.

We remain optimistic. We have seen the profound impact this event has on the men and boys who participate, and we are determined to continue. Your donation, of any size, will be the critical push we need to get to the starting line.

Your support will directly enable us to move from planning to execution, ensuring that the men and boys in our community have this unique platform for connection and growth.

Thank you for your unwavering belief in this project. You are an essential member of our team, and we hope you will join us in this final push to make the 2025 marathon a resounding success.

With anticipation and gratitude,

Project Leader