The Port Alberni Toy Run will celebrate its 40th anniversary when the motorcycle ride kicks off the morning of Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024 at Little Qualicum Falls.
This is no small feat for a service club—and that is precisely what the Toy Run run is.
Since the beginning, the club's focus has been on kids. The ride itself collects toys and monetary donations that are spent on youth-oriented activities and groups. Members have stepped up to run events for children including First Night, the former Our Town summer events, Winter Wonderland skates and so much more.
The club annually donates to countless organizations for youth.
The events take a lot of effort, yet the Toy Run's list of volunteers is long and willing. The motorcycle riding community steps up, and they are getting noticed.
Barnes Harley-Davidson reckons Port Alberni's event is the largest in Western Canada, and the community support the ride receives overshadows any other efforts.
The Toy Run has thrived under the leadership of David Wiwchar, Tom Wall and others for the past 14 years. This is the final year that Wiwchar and Wall will be at the helm, as they are retiring from their positions, though not their participation. The club will hold elections in early 2025 for new leadership to lead its members into their fifth decade.
Club members hope they will have a record-breaking year as a send-off.
One thing they know for sure: the community will be out lining the streets of Port Alberni, supporting the ride no matter how many motorcycles show up. And that's what ensures there will be a 41st annual ride next year.
— Alberni Valley News
