Since 2000, Norton Rose Canada has been hosting the Ride For Kids, a two-day cycling adventure from Jasper to Banff, benefiting four youth charities in Calgary. The Ride was spearheaded by partners Steve Leitl and Roger Smith to raise funds for Youth Central, the YMCA Strong Kids campaign, the Calgary Interfaith Food Bank - Norton Rose Milk for Teens Program and KidSport Calgary.
Since its inception, it has raised over $625,000 for these deserving organizations, and in 2011, the Ride for Kids won the Lexpert Zenith Award for Corporate Social Responsibility by a Law Firm that Impacts Children – Regional.
Here's what a few participants have to say about the Norton Rose Ride for Kids:
"I wanted to commend everyone involved in the organization of this year's Ride for Kids. It was a fantastic weekend in all respects and I look forward to next year's event. Thanks again."
"Great job on the organization. I have gone on a number of these and you have done an outstanding job. Congrats, and thanks to all the volunteers."
"Being a Ride for Kids volunteer these past few years has been a great experience. There aren't many opportunities where you can help a great cause, spend a weekend in the Rockies, and meet clients, lawyers, and friends. I would recommend being a Ride for Kids volunteer to anyone."
"I certainly had some in-trepidation and anxiety leading up to the big weekend. Having now completed the experience, I would have to say you guys put together a classy charity event."