By Gail Haarsma—Dean Arbuckle is a young man on a mission to support his community and ensure no one goes without. He’s doing this by completing the 50/50 Walkathon, a marathon walk (42.2 kilometres) on August 23.

Arbuckle is looking for sponsors to help him raise funds for the Eastern Passage Community Fridge and the Knights of Columbus Council 10486 (Eastern Passage) between now and August.

“My goal is to raise $1,000—50 percent goes to the Community Fridge and 50 percent to the Eastern Passage Knights of Columbus. No amount is too small,” says Arbuckle.

The Beacon asked Arbuckle why he wanted to complete a marathon to raise money for the community.

“In my mid-twenties, I ran a half marathon, and I always wanted to do a full marathon. I’ll be walking it, though, to support my community,” he explains.

Arbuckle believes everyone should have access to food as it “fuels both our bodies and our dreams.” He chose the EP Community Fridge because he appreciates its “no stigma,” “no barriers” approach to accessing food.

“I like that it’s open 24/7 and people can take what they need, no questions asked. People are often too afraid to ask for help, and this way, they can get what they need without worrying about anyone judging them,” says Arbuckle.

As a member of the EP Knights of Columbus, he knows firsthand the good work that organization does locally and beyond.

“My dad has been a big part of the Knights of Columbus for many years, and I joined too. The organization supports great community initiatives in Eastern Passage, like Christmas boxes for families in need, providing socks and underwear to the homeless encampment, supporting the Special Olympics and Ukraine, and helping anyone else down on their luck.”

Speaking from a Coast Guard ship in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Arbuckle reflects on how important it is to help one’s neighbours.

“We all need to work together to make this community a little bit better. If I can get some exposure for these two great organizations, and even if one person finds out about them who didn’t know they exist, then it’s a win.”