Hi, I’m Jessie Thomson, President & CEO of Right To Play. I’m running Ottawa Race Weekend to support something I care deeply about: every child’s right to learn, heal, and thrive through play.

Today, 234 million school‑aged children living in crises around the world need urgent educational support—that’s 35 million more children than just three years ago. In the face of conflict, displacement, and poverty, play is not a luxury. It’s a powerful way to support learning, mental health, and resilience.

Right To Play works with local partners to reach children where the need is greatest, helping them build the skills and confidence they need for life.

If you’re able, I’d be so grateful for your support. Every step I run helps create safer, more hopeful spaces for children to grow.

Thank you for cheering me on—on the road and in this work.