Commentary, Opinion

Monthly Message: Walk with purpose and champion seniors in need at CONTACT Grand Parade 

September 11, 2025   ·   0 Comments

In the heart of New Tecumseth, a powerful movement is taking shape — one that blends community spirit, compassion, and a good pair of walking shoes. The Grand Parade, a national family-friendly fundraising walk, returns this September for the third year with a mission that resonates deeply: supporting seniors in need.

The Grand Parade is more than just a walk — it’s a lifeline for aging Canadians who are struggling with isolation, financial hardship, lack of transportation, and loss. On Sept. 20, the community of New Tecumseth will gather to walk together, raise funds, and celebrate the resilience of our local seniors.

Supporting local

The Grand Parade is designed to be inclusive and engaging. Participants of all ages are encouraged to join, whether as individuals, families, or teams. The route begins on Mill Street, saunters down Victoria Street, and concludes at Banting Memorial High School, where a complimentary BBQ and celebration await. 

We are so grateful to community supporters like Giant Tiger, McDonald’s, and M&M Food Market for supplying a delicious BBQ lunch and treats, and to The Printing House and Jumping for Joy Mascots for their support of this event! We are excited to have Lachlan McGurk, owner of Bern’s Flowers and talented bagpiper, lead the parade this year!

Walkers who raise over $150 (or $75 for youth) earn the iconic Grand Parade ‘Life is Grand’ t-shirt — a symbol of solidarity and support. 

Every step taken and every dollar raised will directly support programs that help our local seniors live healthier, more connected lives. CONTACT Community Services uses these funds to provide essential services to seniors who need them most.

Why this walk matters

Seniors are facing a growing list of challenges. Rising costs of living, limited transportation options, and social isolation are just a few of the issues that CONTACT sees daily. Many older adults live alone, far from family, and struggle to access basic necessities. The Grand Parade shines a spotlight on these issues, reminding the community that aging should never mean being forgotten.

Tina de los Santos, executive director of CONTACT Community Services, emphasizes the importance of the event: “Our goal is to raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by seniors in our community and to rally support from our neighbours and friends to help make a difference in their lives.”

Community comes together

The Grand Parade is also a celebration of community. Local businesses, government officials, and organizations proudly participate, forming teams and competing in friendly fundraising challenges. Prizes are awarded for the most funds raised by individuals and teams, as well as for best team spirit — costumes are not only welcome but encouraged.

This year’s Alliston scoreboard already shows impressive momentum. Teams like “Legion Legends III,” “TLC Thrifters,” and “CONTACT Your Councillor” are leading the charge, raising funds and rallying their networks to support the cause.

Brenda Pufek, CONTACT’s manager of community engagement and development, shares her excitement: “We encourage every person to help us make this event a success. We service the most caring communities, and I know that the residents of New Tecumseth will show the rest of Canada what this really means at this event.”

How you can help

Whether you’re a seasoned walker or simply someone who cares, there are many ways to get involved:

• Register to walk: Join as an individual or form a team with friends, family, or coworkers.
• Donate: Every contribution helps fund vital services for seniors.
• Volunteer: Help out on event day with setup, registration, or cheering on walkers.
• Spread the word: Share the event on social media and encourage others to participate.

To register, donate, or learn more, visit the official Grand Parade Alliston pagehttps://thegrandparade.org/location/alliston.

A step toward dignity

The Grand Parade in Alliston is more than a fundraiser — it’s a statement. It says that seniors matter, that their stories are valued, and that their well-being is a shared responsibility. As walkers take to the streets on Sep. 20, they’ll be carrying more than banners and water bottles — they’ll be carrying hope.

In a world that often moves too fast, The Grand Parade invites us to slow down, walk together, and remember the people who paved the way before us. And in New Tecumseth, that walk is leading straight toward a future where every senior is seen, supported, and celebrated.

For more information about The Grand Parade in Alliston, Bradford, or Collingwood, please reach out to brenda@contactcommunityservices.ca.

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