Hospice Waterloo Region is celebrating its 13th Annual Hike For Hospice event on Sept. 21st, in support of the exceptional service and care provided to hospice clients and their families.
Hike for Hospice is an annual family and dog-friendly walk event. It is a unique opportunity for those families and friends who have lost a loved one to create a legacy of ongoing support by hiking in their memory.
“All of the funds raised are used to ensure hospice supports are no charge to anyone who requires them. Our participants are committed and passionate about supporting a cause that makes such a tremendous difference to the lives of so many families,” says Judy Nairn, Executive Director of HWR.
Date: Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025
Time: On-site registration opens at 9:30 am – hike begins at 10:30 am.
Location: Hospice Waterloo Region, 100 Solstice Way, Waterloo
Participants will follow a 3km route along the beautiful trails surrounding the facility.
Event Highlights:
- Onsite Memorial activities and “Walk Through” Memory Lane
- Kids Enroute Adventure Pack
- Participant T-Shirts
- Post Hike BBQ Lunch
- Fun Top Fundraiser Prizes
- Hiker Swag (available for purchase)
NEW this year:
- Birdhouse Silent Auction
- Family Activities
Rain or shine?
Yes, we hike in the rain! In the event of any unexpected weather event, any cancellation updates would be sent to all registrants through the email listed in their profile.
Will there be shade available?
Yes, a significant area of the event space will be covered with tents and picnic tables to get out of the sun. The hike trail is partially covered by trees, and partially in sun.
Can I bring my dog? Do I register my pup in advance?
You can absolutely bring your pup! All pets should be leashed and remain with their owner throughout the event. We politely ask that owners pick up after their pets. No advance registration of pets is required.
Who can I contact with specific questions?
If you have any questions about registration or you require troubleshooting help with creating your unique fundraising page / team, please contact Emily Squirrell, Communications & Special Projects Coordinator at [email protected], ext. 136.
Hiker’s Toolkit
Resources to help you promote the 2025 Hospice Waterloo Region Hike for Hospice event.
Click on any of the below links to download your copy!
- Hiker’s Toolkit – 2025 Guide (PDF)
- Hiker’s Toolkit – Social Media Share 01 (PNG)
- Hiker’s Toolkit – Social Media Share 02 (PNG)
How to raise funds for your team
1. Register
Make your way to Hospice Waterloo Region’s registration page. Follow the steps to sign up. You can fundraise alone, join a team or start your own!
2. Set Up Your Page
Your personal page is the place your donors come to make their donation to you and your team. This is your unique spot to collect funds to reach your goal!
3. Make it Personal
Photos and your own words will make your communications feel personal to your potential donors. Don’t be afraid to speak from the heart or include your reason for participating.
4. Email Your Contacts
Use the email tools to send your contacts the request for donations. These letters can include your personal story, humour or images that help motivate your potential donors to join you.
5. Be Social
Use Hospice Waterloo Region’s Social Media kit to post an image to your network (Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn) and request donations. You can use the recommended text or write your own! Don’t forget to include the link to your personal page.
6. Just Ask!
For many participants, asking for donations may seem nerve-racking, especially if you’ve never done it before. Many people, however, are deeply motivated to contribute to meaningful efforts in our community. Ask family and friends to consider a donation and connect from the heart!
Hot Tips
Make your request specific & relatable
Quantifying the request can take pressure off your potential donors. Try using a specific and relatable comparison (like 10 large Tim Horton’s iced coffees = $33), so your donors can feel personally connected to the amount.
Share your progress, tell them where you’re at!
Donors appreciate feeling like they’re part of your team even if they’re not participating in the event. If you’ve reached 50% of your goal, share your news with your network! And let them know when you surpass your goal, so they can share your good news story!
Humour helps!
When your communication to friends and family includes a personal anecdote or a funny and lighthearted comment, the mood for giving is enhanced. Try something like “Help me beat Uncle Bob at something for once in my life!” A warm, heartfelt tone or an attitude of friendly competition, can make someone chuckle and move them to give. Have fun with it! Be genuine.
Say thank you!
Thank your donors for their generous support that means so much to you and to Hospice Waterloo Region.
Have Questions?
Please email Melissa Parker, Donor Relations & Stewardship Manager at: [email protected]