As the charity partner of the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026 (May 23–24, 2026), the Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO) is proud to launch this year’s Run for a New Start (R4NS) fundraising campaign.
We are grateful for all the runners, walkers, families, and community members who join our team each year to make a difference.
This year, our campaign highlights how support for newcomers is passed on across generations.
Many of us were once newcomers—or come from families who were/are. Today, we have the opportunity to give back, support others, and inspire the next generation to do the same.
Every step we take helps create a more welcoming and supportive environment for newcomers today—and for the future.
Funds raised through Run for a New Start will support OCISO’s programs and services that help newcomers settle, integrate, and thrive in Ottawa.
From employment support to language training and community connections, OCISO works with individuals and families at every stage of their journey—helping them build a new start in Canada.
Participants who raise more than $200 for OCISO will receive:
Registration fees range from approximately $31.50 to $61.88, depending on the distance.
Please keep your registration receipt email and submit your reimbursement request by Monday, June 22, 2026.
Click below to learn how to register for the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend and select OCISO as your charity of choice.
If you are not able to participate in the race but would still like to support the campaign, you can donate here:
[Donate to OCISO – Run for a New Start 2026]
You will automatically receive a tax receipt for donations of $10 or more.
As part of Run for a New Start you will be walking or running for these distances, either solo or in a safe-distanced group:
When promoting Run for a New Start, please use:
#RunOttawa2026
#CourezOttawa2026
#DesjardinsCharityChallenge
#DéfiCaritatifDesjardins
And tag:
@OCISO
@runottawa
@OttawaMarathon
@OttawaRaceWknd
@DesjardinsGroup
For OCISO Run for a New Start campaign, please contact us at [email protected]
For general inquiries about the races, please contact [email protected]
Thank you for your support!
