Be Like Terry
At 21 years old, Terry Fox set in motion an unstoppable movement of selflessness, compassion and leadership, proving that there is no age requirement to make a huge difference in this world. He set an incredible example of leadership that will never be forgotten. We invite you to “Be like Terry”, challenge yourself and LEAD.
Students continue to follow in Terry’s footsteps, empowered to carry on his legacy by leading their school’s Terry Fox School Run. By becoming a Terry Fox Run Student Leader, you will develop lifelong skills to help shape your future and raise much-needed funds for cancer research. This is your chance to make a difference.
Why students should get involved
Terry Fox was only 21 when he ran the Marathon of Hope and his efforts continue to make an impact on cancer research today, 43 years later. Students have the opportunity to follow his example of courage, determination and compassion to continue his legacy but also to set their own examples of incredible leadership. Our next generation of students will be the ones to help us achieve a world without cancer. The benefits are endless…
- Your fundraising total will soar!
- Students are empowered as leaders
- Students learn organizational skills
- A great lesson in goal setting!
- Students fulfill their required volunteer hours
- To-do lists are easily checked off
- Students set great examples for younger students
- Everyone benefits from teamwork!
How to get started
Every student, school or group is different. Whether you are part of a student leadership class or working on your own, students of all ages (Elementary & High School) are welcome to lead activities in support of their Terry Fox School Run, with the permission of their School Run Organizer.
Step 1: Download our Elementary or High School Student Leadership Guides
Step 2: Reach out to your selected students to initiate a fun meetup
Step 3: Using our Leadership Guides, create a plan or task list with your team to promote your event and begin fundraising
Tools and Resources for Student Leaders
We are here to help you every step of the way. Go to our Virtual Terry Classroom, our one stop shop of all online resources. Students are also welcome to join our Terry Fox Foundation School Run team in a virtual meetup to hear an overview of how to present a Terry Fox assembly or take part in a live Q and A. To contact your provincial Terry Fox School Run representative, click here or call 1-888-836-9786.
Recognition for Student Leaders
We join with our cancer researchers and, most importantly, the many Canadians who are facing cancer today, in saying “THANK YOU” to our students for their efforts and commitment. On behalf of the Terry Fox Foundation, please download, print and share this Student Leadership Certificate to honour and recognize your wonderful Student Leaders.
Student Leadership Activities
Take your Terry Fox School Run to the next level by empowering students to take ownership of their school event. Students can showcase their creativity, passion and determination as they help plan fundraising activities. Simply refer to the Elementary or High School Student Leadership guides for a more detailed list or check out the suggestions below.
- Share morning announcements
- Hang or create posters
- Make a Terry Fox presentation or video
- Create an engaging Terry Fox assembly
- Brainstorm a fun and creative Challenge
- Share your school's online fundraising link
- Sell Terry Fox t-shirts
- Set up a dedication wall
