The Running for Shelter fundraiser reached its destination in Wroxton, Sask. after nearly a month-long journey.
Kagan Kneen, executive director at the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter, set out at the beginning of August to raise money for a new men’s shelter in Lloyd.
The nearly 1,300-kilometre run wrapped up Aug. 26 and Kneen says it has been very challenging.
“There’s been many times this month I’ve wanted to give up, I’ve wanted to quit, but for those of you that don’t know me super well, I am stubborn. When I commit to something, I stick with it,” he said.
In one of his many nightly “tent talks,” he spoke about how difficult the run had become. He was doing everything to battle the pain, including taking 2 extra strength Tylenol, using Rub A535, and icing and elevating his legs after each day.
Kneen says change must start small, and this is his first step.
“I wanted to show I am all-in to help, not just the clients but our community. As I’ve told you guys many times, I was born and raised in the Lloyd area, and I have so much pride for the city, and change can only happen one step at a time.”
“I am 100 per cent committed to not just this and the fundraising but to making that change in the community.”
His goal is to start more conversations in a positive light and address the issues the shelter is facing.
“Having more wraparound services, having a place where it’s safe for them to be themselves, and getting the skills to find transitional housing,” explains Kneen.
“There are those that want to get out of the system.”
He is also thankful for all the support and has dedicated the run to recently deceased councillor, long-time Rotarian and community pillar Glenn Fagnan.
“Somebody who played a huge impact on me is Glenn Fagnan, I want to dedicate this run to him, he was such a pillar of strength in the community and such an inspiration to so many.”
Kneen, following the completion of his run, took to Yorkton, Sask. to tour their shelter.
As of Aug. 27, over $43,000 was raised.
Read More: Celebrating a run for a good cause
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