William’s Run for Hope
A Walk and Run Event for Youth Mental Health!
Join us Saturday, May 30, 2026, for
William’s Run for Hope!
Our 5-kilometre walk and run is a fun and active way to raise funding in support of youth mental health in Ontario.
Use our handy Registration button below—or tap here!
Our event takes place at St. Mary Park in Pickering, Ontario, from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM. See our map below!
You can also participate virtually from your own community:
William's Story
Tragically, William Deane lost his battle with bipolar disorder in February of 2015.
For months, William had grappled silently and courageously with his mental health. In early 2015, he received a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. With this, William sought help from the University of Toronto's psychiatry department. Always open and public about his challenges, William shared his concerns about why discussions on mental health were limited to specific campaigns—while emphasizing the need for daily conversations about mental wellness.
Had William known about the resources of peer support during his struggles with medications and finding psychiatric care, it might have made a life-changing difference for him.
Today, William's family champions the beneficial impact of peer support for all.
William’s Memory and Hope & Me
In the aftermath of William's passing, the Deane family sought to channel their grief into meaningful action. They aligned with Hope & Me, our organization committed to direct support and activism, embodying William's passion for bringing people together.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Getting started is simple! Registration is just $25.00 and takes only a few minutes!
You can create a team, or sign up as an individual, and then rally your friends, family, colleagues, or classmates to join your mission.
Together, we can achieve more!
MAKE AN IMPACT
Be a leader by donating to your own fundraising campaign.
Your support not only assists the event, but it also sends a powerful message to young people: You are not alone on your journey.
Your contributions truly matter!
UNLOCK THE FULL POTENTIAL
.. of your fundraising efforts by logging into the Participant Centre.
Access a comprehensive suite of tools designed to enhance your fundraising experience and help you make a meaningful impact.
Together, let’s create change!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a registration fee?
Yes! To participate in William’s Run for Hope, there is a nominal fee of $25.00.
Click or tap here to register today!
What time does the event start?
Mark your calendar for an exciting day on Saturday, May 30, 2026!
The walk and run begins at 1:30 PM and wraps up at 5:00 PM.
Where is the event located?
St. Mary's Park
1575P Amberlea Road
Pickering, Ontario
L1V 5P1
(close to St Mary’s High School in Pickering)
What's included with my registration fee?
Mark your calendar for an exciting day on Saturday, May 30, 2026!
The walk and run begins at 1:30 PM and wraps up at 5:00 PM.
How do I get started?
1
We have lots of choices! For just $25, you can register to join William's Run on your own. Or, you can start a team or join one by asking friends, family, colleagues, or classmates to join you. If you can't make the event in person, you can join our 5-km walk and run online to support mental health across Ontario! All for just $25!
2
Set your fundraising goal (suggested minimum $100)
Setting a realistic goal will help keep you motivated and give you something concrete to work toward. Raising these funds helps support youth, adults, and their families across Ontario and helps you earn rewards!
3
Share your reason for participating ...
... and build your connection to the cause. Whether it’s on your online profile page or through personal e-mails, share your reason for supporting Hope and Me. You'll be pleasantly surprised by how your family and friends want to support your efforts!
4
Let your friends, family, colleagues or classmates know ...
... that you’re a champion within your community! Ask everyone you know to join William's Run with you! Just make a list of all the people you know and ask them to make a donation if possible. Call, e-mail, or post on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media.