Yogi Akal's
th
Yogi Akal is turning his 70th birthday celebration into a
Walk for Health, Hope & Haven Toronto
Help reach the goal of 700km
Help raise $7000 (7000 meals)
Haven Toronto reduces barriers to health care, housing and food security for elder men impacted by poverty, homelessness and isolation.
The only drop-in centre in Canada dedicated to serving elder homeless men, Haven Toronto is a safe space where clients can form and cultivate friendships, and become part of a community.
Haven Toronto serves thousands of elder homeless men annually and has clients from over 60 countries.
70th
Celebrating
Yogi Akal's
70th Birthday
700km
Going a
combined
700km
70
Over the
course of
70 days
$7000
Providing
7000
healthy meals
100% of the funds raised go directly to Haven Toronto
7 WAYS TO GO THE DISTANCE
(Between now and July 28th, start any time)
Walk
Hike
Climb
Swim
Bike
Run
Jog
Row
Paddle
Roll
Skate
Blade
You
Tell
Us
TEAM PROGRESS
(Updated Weekly – Last Updated May 18, 2022)
PARTICIPATE
Your goal counts
towards the Team's
goal of 700km.
BE A SPONSOR
Sponsor per kilometre
10¢/km = $70, 20¢ = $140,
30¢ = $210, etc.
Set your own amount
MAKE AN IMPACT
Together we will raise
enough for 7000 meals
for elder homeless men
5km 10km+ $100 $500 $1000+
(Legend)
BLOG: WHAT A DIFFERENCE A DOG CAN MAKE
My dog, Beta, began his work as a Therapy Dog by passing tests administered by St John Ambulance. He was certified at all levels, including therapy for children. Over the years, he was placed in many environments around Toronto, including rest homes, hospitals, schools, hospices, women’s shelters, men’s shelters, community centres, seniors’ groups, psychiatric homes, etc. He marched in parades, helped the police in community awareness campaigns, and even appeared on television. He appeared with me on main stage events, for the annual Blessing of the Animals. There is even a wonderful mural drawing of Beta on the side of a building at River & Dundas Streets in Toronto.
“Haven" was Beta's favourite place to visit. It is a day shelter for homeless men over 50 in Toronto.
Beta
Beta visited there often when he was working and then every year on his birthday once he retired. What impressed me the most about his behaviour at Haven was his sheer determination to connect with every single person. He did not try to be cute or grab attention; he made a point to touch his nose to every client and staff member in the facility. Sometimes that would evoke an enthusiastic response and sometimes just a nod, but without exception, he would touch each soul.
Beta passed on in 2020, but I have kept up a connection with Haven. I don’t touch noses but I do make a point of donating and helping to raise awareness. Please join me in doing the same.
BLOG: EVERY STEP COUNTS
Over the years, I have supported many organizations and events that serve those who are experiencing homelessness – from the Native Mens Residence (MaMeRes), Street Help, Timuvet (for homeless youth) and of course Haven in Toronto, to various free kitchens around the world.
Haven has a long history of supporting men in need over 50, men who are often overlooked and undervalued. As I turn 70, I recognize this concern and appreciate this service even more. Homelessness can happen to anyone, anywhere. And when you are older, it can be so much harder to be seen, to exist.
One of the many reasons I am supporting Haven with this event is that the organization and facility assures that 100% of the clients that come for a meal get a meal, a healthy meal. An average number served would be about 7,000 per month. If demand increases, then capacity meets demand; no one is sent away hungry.
Let’s assure that at least one month of meals can be guaranteed through our efforts. It is healthy and fun to “go the distance”. The next time you take your dog for a walk, or head out for a jog, bike, swim, rollerblade or row your boat, take a moment to log in and enter your kilometers. Every step counts!
