Times change fast. So do communities.
It’s easy to think that we’ve become more distant from each other over the past while.
But sometimes, we’re reminded that we can still come together in a big way.
The Port Alberni Annual Toy Run is one of those reminders. Now in its 38th year, it’s a much-beloved event that brings together the biker community and the folks of Port Alberni to gather toys for kids who could use a good Christmas.
It started out in 1985 when 25 bikers came together and delivered 40 toys to the Salvation Army. Now it’s a city-wide event.
This year, upwards of 1,100 bikers from Port Alberni and further afield made the now iconic drive through the city.
The support was outstanding.
Besides all the moral support that comes from having the whole city come out to watch and cheer on the bikers, the financial support given was overwhelming.
Dave Wiwchar is the chair of the Toy Run. He says this year’s event raised “tens of thousands of dollars in cash, and a similar amount in toys.”
That’s a lot of smiles on kids faces.
A special shout-out goes to Kim Nielsen. She donated all of her record-setting Poker Run win of $1750 back to Toy Run.
A big shout-out also goes out to the Langley Chapter of Harley Owners Group (HOG) for coming out and donating $2590 to the kids of the Alberni Valley!
It’s a great reminder that, when we all come together, we can make big differences in the lives of those who need it most.
We think you’ll agree. When you look at all these motorbikes, it’s pretty obvious—our communities are stronger than ever.
