Written by Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend
“That’s what makes this work so meaningful to me…the ripple effect. Mentorship doesn’t have to be lifelong to be life-changing. Seeing those small moments of connection, trust, and growth reminds me every day why this cause matters. It’s about planting seeds that continue to grow, often in ways we don’t even realize.”
Stephanie Chretien-Gaudreau has been with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa (BBBSO) for over a decade, and if there’s one thing she’s seen firsthand, it’s how powerful relationships can shape lives—often in quiet, long-lasting ways. This May, as part of the Desjardins Charity Challenge during Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, she’ll be running her first half marathon, but for her, it’s about much more than crossing a finish line. It’s about community, showing up for others and investing in brighter futures for youth, one relationship at a time.
Running with purpose
Chretien-Gaudreau is a Service Delivery Manager at BBBSO—and a dedicated runner. “It clears my mind, lifts my mood, and leaves me feeling energized and ready to take on whatever’s ahead,” she says. “Running has become a meaningful part of my routine and identity, and a powerful reminder of both resilience and growth.”
After picking up running more consistently following the birth of her son in 2020, Chretien-Gaudreau found it to be a vital outlet during the isolation of the pandemic. Since then, she’s gone from 5 Ks to 10Ks, and now she’s preparing for her first half marathon. Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, she says, is a yearly highlight.
“There’s something so inspiring about being surrounded by people of all backgrounds and abilities, all pushing themselves and supporting one another,” she says. “The atmosphere is electric—whether it’s the cheering crowds, the live music, or just the collective excitement in the air. It reminds me why I love running in the first place. Plus, running through the streets of Ottawa with thousands of others, it’s just an unforgettable feeling.”
The BBBSO running team: racing for mentorship
This year, BBBSO has gone all-out to make the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend extra special by launching a full-fledged BBBSO Running Team, comprised of staff, board members, mentors, and community supporters. Each runner has been challenged to raise $1,000, which is the estimated cost of supporting one youth through BBBSO’s mentorship programs for a full year.
The team effort is supported by generous sponsors like The Oscar Project, which is supplying team shirts, seoplus+, which is hosting weekly Friday practice runs and breakfasts through their Run Club, and Fratelli Westboro, who will host a celebratory patio party after the race.
“The support has been incredible,” says Jake Naylor, Development Officer at BBBSO. “And we welcome anyone, of any pace or background, to join the team.”
How fundraising supports local youth
Behind every step of training, every dollar raised, and every runner lacing up their shoes is a shared belief: mentorship changes lives.
“Our programs are in incredibly high demand, and meaningful fundraising opportunities like this are essential to our ability to continue serving children and youth in our community,” Chretien-Gaudreau explains. “Every dollar raised helps us recruit, screen, train, and support mentors—ensuring each match is set up for success and has the guidance needed to thrive over time.”
The impact goes far beyond the moment of connection; it ripples through futures. “Youth are our future,” she continues. “Having a consistent, caring adult in their lives—a mentor, a role model, someone they can turn to—can make a profound difference. Mentorship can boost a young person’s confidence, help them navigate challenges, and open doors to new opportunities.”
Similarities between running and mentorship
“In running, progress doesn’t happen overnight. It takes commitment, patience, and the willingness to keep showing up, even on tough days. Mentorship is the same,” says Chretien-Gaudreau. “You support someone through their journey, helping them push past self-doubt and recognize their own potential, step by step.”
She sees deep parallels between running and mentoring; values like perseverance, encouragement, and believing in one another. “Running has taught me how powerful it is to trust the process and celebrate small wins along the way—just like in mentorship, where building confidence and growth often happen gradually. And just like in a race, having someone cheer you on or run beside you can make all the difference.”
Whether it’s building trust in a mentor-mentee match or building mileage toward race day, Chretien-Gaudreau believes it’s all about connection.
“That spirit of connection aligns perfectly with BBBSO’s mission. Just like in mentorship, Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend is about showing up for one another, lifting each other up, and believing in the potential of every individual. By participating in an event like this, we’re not just running—we’re helping build a more connected, supportive, and inspired community, which is exactly what BBBSO is all about.”
How to get Involved
Want to support youth in Ottawa and be part of something bigger?
- Join the BBBSO Running Team and fundraise for a powerful cause. Runners of all levels are welcome: BBBSO Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend Info. If you’d like to join the team or have any questions, please contact Jake Naylor at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa: [email protected] or 613-325-0555 (call/text).
- Donate directly to their campaign and help BBBSO reach their fundraising goals: Donate Here
- Learn more about BBBSO’s life-changing programs and how you can get involved: www.bbbso.ca
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend is more than just a run. For Chretien-Gaudreau and the BBBSO team, it’s a celebration of perseverance, purpose, and the power of community. And every step they take is a step toward a stronger, more connected Ottawa—where every young person has the support they need to thrive.
