On Sunday, June 8, ALPHA Education hosted the “Run for Peace” charity run and fundraiser at Milne Dam Conservation Park in Markham. The event attracted numerous running groups from across the Greater Toronto Area. More than 300 community members attended, including 285 participants who joined the charity run. The scene at the run was deeply moving, as wheelchair users steadily pushed forward and families of all ages, young and old, ran together. York Region District School Board Chair and Trustee for Wards 2 & 6, Ron Lynn, also attended to show his support. As of the event date, the charity run has raised over CAD $250,000 in support of the WongAvery Asia Pacific Peace Museum.
 

The goal of the event was to promote justice and reconciliation, raising awareness of World War II history, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. The event also encouraged Canadians to reflect on the importance of remembering history, cherishing peace, and fostering global solidarity in today’s world. Dr. Joseph Wong, the founder of ALPHA Education, Flora Chong, Executive Director, and Ben Leung, Organizing Committee Chair, presented medals to the top three male and female runners.
 

All funds raised will go towards supporting the operations and educational programs of the WongAvery Asia Pacific Peace Museum and ALPHA Education. Through this event, the organizers hope to highlight the mission and values behind the museum’s work to educate the public on the history of WWII in Asia. The event also aimed to inspire greater interest, understanding, and participation in historical education among the younger generation. The funds raised will further support more opportunities for teachers, scholars, university, and high school students to engage in learning and researching through the museum.
 

As one participant wrote in a poem dedicated to the WongAvery Asia Pacific Peace Museum:

“This charity run is a tribute to history through the healthy vitality of contemporary people; letting our hearts beat vigorously as we run is the most powerful denial of the war machine.”