On Oct. 4, the Waterloo Region hosted the Ride for Refuge event in various parts of the region, including Waterloo and Kitchener.
Ride for Refuge is a non-competitive cycling event and annual campaign that partners with approximately 175 independent charities, while raising awareness and funds for vulnerable, exploited or displaced individuals in Canada and the United States.
There were three teams total: the first team in Kitchener Central started from Red Raccoon Bike Rescue at 79 Joseph St., the second team in Waterloo began at 190 Westmount Rd. and the third team began at the Doon Valley Golf Course.
As of late October 2025, the Ride for Refuge campaign has raised over $1.43 million of its $1.5 million national goal, with 674 teams participating across 55 regions in Canada. The Waterloo Region teams contributed to this nationwide effort. Participants could choose from 2, 5, 10 or 20-kilometer cycling routes, accommodating all skill levels.
Since its inception, Ride for Refuge has raised more than $5 million for its charitable partners. Participating teams can choose to fundraise for any of the approved charities. Teams can fundraise to support orphans, refugees, the homeless, victims of human trafficking and other displaced people.
The Kitchener Central team rode to raise funds for the Social Development Centre Waterloo Region, and the Waterloo team raised money for Reception House Waterloo Region. The Kitchener Grand River team rode for the COMPASS Refugee Centre in Kitchener.
Shelley Campagnola, the Executive Director of COMPASS Refugee Centre, said that the organization is a registered charity in Kitchener-Waterloo assisting and advocating for refugee claimants across Canada.
“The purpose of COMPASS Refugee Centre is to bring access to justice for people seeking protection at Canada’s border,” Campagnola said.
“We thank everyone who participated in Ride for Refuge and helped us with our cause.”
Jim MacMillan, captain of Waterloo Mennonite Brethren (WMB) on the Move from Kitchener-Grand River, said he had supported refugees for many years, beginning in Toronto. He learned about Ride for Refuge 20 years ago through a church he attended and decided to take part, as it is one of the easiest ways to support refugees.
“I participate in the Ride for those who don’t have a safe and secure place to live every day,” MacMillan said. “I ride because I’ve seen and heard stories about newcomers escaping horrible circumstances, and with the help of COMPASS, they are now living fulfilling lives in Canada.”
This year, WMB on the Move raised over $87,000 for COMPASS, surpassing their goal of $75,000. Nationwide, the Ride had reached 95 per cent of its $1.5 million target as of early October.
The team’s goals include raising funds for COMPASS Refugee Centre to support refugees navigating a complex asylum system, raising awareness about refugee issues among their community and enjoying a fun outdoor event with like-minded participants.
MacMillan emphasized that events like Ride for Refuge not only raise funds but also raise awareness about the challenges refugees face.
“Waterloo residents, regardless of age, can make a real difference,” he said. “It feels great to help out, and it’s a lot of fun. We hope more students and community members get involved next year.”
With greater participation, Ride for Refuge promises to expand its impact, bringing communities together to support vulnerable populations across Canada.
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