The KidsFest Running & Reading Club is unique, life-changing program offered to children living at or below the poverty line.  This high impact program helps to improve academic achievement, physical fitness and social interaction among participants, equipping each child to achieve their full potential and become a valuable contributor within their respective community and the nation.

One of KidsFest’s most innovative initiatives, the Running & Reading Club after-school program was launched under the directorship of former Olympian and Canadian marathon record holder, Silvia Ruegger.  Operating directly within inner city schools, the program runs one afternoon per week for two hours throughout the school year, at multiple locations across Canada from Halifax to Vancouver.

Through fitness activities, mentorship, and literacy support, this 32-week adventure helps children to improve their physical, mental, emotional and social health and develop a love of reading.  Students spend the first 45 minutes of each weekly session in physical activity which includes circuit training, running-based games and relays.  This is followed by a 20-minute character building component and snack time.  An inspirational “word of the day”, is shared by one of the team leaders and the group is invited to hear a story and participate in a discussion about this special word.  The children then enjoy a nutritious snack and beverage.  The next 45 minutes are devoted to improving the children’s literacy skills.  Each child keeps track of their progress in physical fitness and reading through a journal.  They then choose books categorized according to reading levels, and read either on their own, with another student, or with the help of a volunteer.  Just before the children are dismissed, those children who show great effort and attitudes are acknowledged by their team leaders.

The Running & Reading Club also incorporates several special opportunities for the children.  In addition to celebrations such as our annual KidsFest Holiday Celebration and sport game outings, the program culminates in a 5km race, as well as a jeopardy-style reading challenge, at the end of the school year.

The nurturing environment created at these after-school clubs helps to build confidence and discipline within the children, giving them hope for future success.  Our dedicated matrix of community volunteers forms a key part of the program.  Acting as role models and mentors, this rich and diverse community of coaches play a key role as challengers and encouragers to children in need, creating a hyperbaric chamber of hope that enables them to pursue and achieve their goals.

For further information, or to get involved, please contact Lina Balsamo at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

National Director: Silvia Ruegger
Director of Community Relations: Nicole Ivory
Executive Administrator: Lina Balsamo