Our Story

Community Strong Race Weekend Fundraising Campaign

 In the summer of 2010, Sonny Spina, Gail Provenzano and the Provenzano family met when Gail’s son, 15-year-old Brett lost his life after a brief struggle with his own mental health. Sonny, one of the responding police officers at the time, became instantly and forever connected with Gail and the Provenzano family.

Sonny and Gail have always remained connected, and just over 10 years later, Gail reached out to Sonny. She shared how running has provided her support and the mental health break she needed to help deal with the loss of Brett. Gail wanted to find a way to celebrate Brett’s life, give back to the community and reach other kids who may be struggling to let them know where and how to find help. Knowing the direct link between mental health and physical health, the two worked together to create a marathon event with the Algoma Family Services Foundation in memory of Brett.

With the support of the Sault running community, the very first Sault Ste. Marie Marathon in memory of Brett Provenzano was held in the summer of 2021. This was a small, intimate event that has since grown to become the Community Strong Race Weekend, supporting various local youth mental health programs!

Research has proven that early intervention and treatment are critical to providing a hopeful and healthy future for all of our community's children. Every year in Sault Ste. Marie and the Algoma district there are hundreds of children who struggle with their mental health.

Whether you are participating in our event for the first time, come back year-after-year or help as a volunteer, on behalf of our children, youth, adults, and families who will be touched by your generosity, thank you! With your support, we can continue to inspire hope and wellness and build strong communities. We hope you will join us on this journey.