Public Invited to Join the Ranks to Run With Responders
Organizers of the 2026 Run With Responders 5K are inviting resident runners to join them on a five-kilometre (5K) route along the Windsor Riverfront Trail on Sunday, July 26, 2026.
Nearly 450 individual runners and walkers of all ages are expected to take part in this unique first responder–themed charity run celebrating all frontline service providers.
Windsor Fire and Rescue Services Chief James Waffle, Windsor Police Service Chief Jason Crowley, and Essex-Windsor Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Chief Justin Lammers challenge local first responders and residents to register and join the 4th Annual Run With Responders 5K, Kids Dash and AM 800m Run to support local charities.
This charity 5K will be a rain-or-shine event. Race-day registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with the run to start at 9:00 a.m. sharp. All runners in the 5K will receive a high-quality event t-shirt and finisher’s medal.
Supporting Local Charities
“For 2026, our charities are Canadian Mental Health Association – Windsor-Essex County Branch (CMHA-WECB), Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics and Windsor Firefighters Benefit Fund, with 100% of the proceeds to benefit these three important charitable organizations,” said lead organizer Dave Orshinsky.
“Run With Responders is a chance to bring our community together in support of the people and organizations that make Windsor-Essex stronger,” said Essex-Windsor EMS Chief, Justin Lammers. “Whether you run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, every participant is helping promote mental wellness, inclusion, and support for those who dedicate themselves to serving others.”
Canadian Mental Health Association – Windsor-Essex County Branch (CMHA-WECB)
Funds raised will support ongoing mental health education, training, and awareness at the Canadian Mental Health Association. Many sessions are geared toward helping professionals like first responders, medical professionals, youth, and caregivers.
“CMHA is honoured to be one of the charities benefiting from this incredible event,” said Kim Willis, Director of Communications and Mental Health Promotion, CMHA-WECB. “Bringing people together to support physical and mental health is a powerful reminder of the role community plays in overall well-being. We are deeply grateful to everyone involved for helping create a healthier, more connected community.”
Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics (LETR)
The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics (LETR) engages law enforcement officers worldwide, championing acceptance and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities, starting first with their own communities.
“The Windsor Police Service is proud to join partners from across the community for this event,” said Windsor Police Service Chief Jason Crowley. “Our members look forward to supporting mental health and raising funds for our amazing athletes.”
Windsor Firefighters Benefit Fund
The Windsor Firefighters Benefit Fund’s mission is to alleviate poverty, uplift the community, and provide unwavering support to firefighters and their families during times of need.
“Windsor Fire and Rescue Services is proud to once again participate in the 2026 Run with Responders 5K in support of CMHA-WECB, the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, and the Windsor Firefighters Benefit Fund,” said Windsor Fire Chief James Waffle. “This event is an important opportunity to come together in support of organizations that make a meaningful difference in our community. We are grateful to the dedicated emergency responders, service staff, volunteers, and community partners whose ongoing commitment helps make Windsor-Essex a stronger, healthier, and more connected place to live and work.”
To Register or Sponsor
Sponsorship opportunities and donations for giveaway items are still available. All sponsors will receive signage recognition and be highlighted on the event website.
For more information on the Run With Responders 5K, individuals and companies can contact Dave Orshinsky at (519) 996-1012 by phone or dorshinsky@gmail.com by email.
Visit www.RaceRoster.com to learn more and register online.