Hearts & Soles Walk brings colour, community, and care

DUNNVILLE—It’s not every day you see a rainbow on the move, but come June 7, Dunnville’s streets will once again burst into a kaleidoscope of colour as the Dunnville Hospital & Healthcare Foundation (DHHF) hosts its annual Hearts & Soles Colour Walk, a vibrant celebration of community spirit and wellness.  

Returning for its second year with the now-beloved “colour blast” twist, the walk invites participants to get active and get messy – all while raising funds for Haldimand War Memorial Hospital.

“This isn’t your average walk,” said DHHF Executive Director Rachel Schmalz. “Participants throw vibrant powdered colour into the air and the colour rains down on them … for a very colourful and high-spirited walk about the town.”

The walk includes 5km and 8km route options and is designed for people of all ages and abilities, with the ability to choose a colour-free option as well. A $25 registration fee covers a customizable t-shirt, colourful sunglasses, a light breakfast, and a barbecue lunch.

Proceeds from this year’s walk will help purchase an upgraded mammography machine, a need Schmalz described as urgent.

“Our current machine is nearing the end of its operational life,” said Schmalz. “Upgrading to modern technology will ensure residents receive accurate, timely diagnoses, improving overall health outcomes.”

Early detection plays a critical role in improving survival rates for breast cancer.

“This investment will directly benefit the people of Dunnville and surrounding areas. We want to make it as easy as possible for people to take care of their health – and to do that, we need the right tools in place,” she said.

With that in mind, DHHF has set a fundraising target of $20,000 for the walk.

“We could use a little push in reaching our goal,” Schmalz admitted. “There is still lots of time to register and start your fundraising, either online or using paper pledge sheets. Every dollar counts.”

Participants who raise funds will be entered to win prizes, including a brand-new scooter for kids aged 5-12 who collect $100 or more in pledges. Awards will also be given to the top fundraisers.

“Grab your friends, your team, or your family, and register today,” Schmalz encouraged.

The foundation hopes to see at least 100 walkers on the day of the event, with all ages invited.

“Our youngest walker last year was age 2 and the oldest was 92,” said Schmalz. “We saw people of all ages have a blast!”

Adding to the festivities this year will be entertainment from Rumble and Friends, offering magic and comedy for the kids, along with community sponsors providing support and resources.

For those who can’t attend but still want to contribute, Schmalz says, “Sharing event details with your networks or sponsoring a participant can have a huge impact.”

Beyond the dollars raised, the Hearts & Soles Colour Walk reflects DHHF’s broader mission of building a healthier, more connected community.

Schmalz recalls how last year’s walk turned heads as walkers paraded through town.

“It inspired a feeling of togetherness,” she said. “It created conversation, energy, and a real sense of community.”

As DHHF looks ahead, events like these continue to play a vital role in supporting high-priority needs at both the hospital and Edgewater Gardens, the long-term care facility it also supports. On average, DHHF contributes $750,000 annually to meet these needs, making each community donation part of a much larger picture.

“Events like this one help us reach those funding goals while bringing people together for something joyful and meaningful,” said Schmalz. “It’s such a special day.”

The walk will begin at Lions Park, 640 Lock Street West, at 8:30 a.m. with the official colour toss and walk kickoff at 9:30 a.m. To register or learn more, visit dhhf.ca/events, call 905-774-2529, or visit the DHHF office at 322 Broad Street West in Dunnville.