When Rodrigo, Human Resources Manager at Voyant Beauty, saw an opportunity to combine employee wellness with community impact, he jumped at the chance to lead his team in the Toronto Corporate Run—and selected Daily Bread Food Bank as their charity of choice.
“We wanted to help our employees feel more socially connected while supporting their physical and mental well-being. At the same time, we knew food banks have been under tremendous strain since COVID. Partnering with Daily Bread for a run fundraiser felt like the perfect fit—it brought those priorities together in one event,” Rodrigo shared.
The urgency of this cause couldn’t be clearer. According to the 2024 Who’s Hungry report, more than one in 10 people in Toronto are now relying on food banks—twice as many as just two years ago. Between January and March 2025 alone, Daily Bread member food banks recorded a staggering 903,350 client visits—four times the number during the same period in 2020.
With almost 30 staff participating, including many first-time runners, the experience quickly became more than just a race. “Some ran, some walked, but everyone showed up and had a great time,” said Rodrigo. To support the team’s fundraising efforts, Voyant hosted a workplace raffle with exciting prizes like TVs, generating buzz across their 700 staff members. With raffle ticket sales and a company match, the team raised $3,330 for Daily Bread—and became the top fundraising team for the event.
Rodrigo credits the team’s success to constant encouragement and communication. “I sent weekly emails updating everyone on how we were doing and pushed us to hit the top spot. People really wanted to contribute to such a great cause.”
For Rodrigo, the best part came after the finish line. “It ended up being the best team bonding event we’ve ever done. People stuck around, mingled, ate, and had an opportunity to connect outside of work.”
His advice for others? “This kind of event is a win-win. It builds healthier habits, strengthens teams, and gives back to the community. Everyone has the potential to make a difference—you just need to step up.”
Inspired by Rodrigo’s story?
The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon offers the same incredible opportunity to combine fitness, team building, and social impact. Whether you’re running solo or rallying your workplace, you can make every step count in the fight to end hunger.
To boost your impact, consider stepping up as a workplace or community champion to lead your team’s fundraising efforts. Creative initiatives—like hosting a raffle, silent auction, bake sale, or game day—can generate excitement and donations. Not sure if your company matches employee contributions? You can search your company at the bottom of this page, or ask your HR team!
Sign up for the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon and choose your challenge—5K, half, or full marathon—and help create a city where everyone can access the food they need.
