Teaching Canadian Culture Through the Terry Fox Walk: TRY LIKE TERRY
For newcomers to Canada, understanding the fabric of Canadian culture can be as important as learning the language. One of the ways we introduce our LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) learners to Canadian values is through the annual Terry Fox Walk, an event that holds a special place in Canadian hearts.
This year’s theme, TRY LIKE TERRY, invited learners to connect with the spirit of Terry Fox, whose determination and courage continue to inspire Canadians. Throughout September, our Day and Evening LINC classes discussed Terry’s story and the broader importance of volunteering and charity walks in Canadian culture.
On September 19th, our evening learners came together to watch a touching video from the Terry Fox Foundation, one of our lead instructors Silva, shared a personal story about how cancer research has made strides that could have changed her own family’s experience with the disease. This was followed by a walk in the neighbourhood. This brought a powerful sense of connection between the learners and the cause.
Our daytime LINC learners/students walked on September 25th to Godstone Park, where we reflected on the significance of charity walks in Canada and how they unite communities for meaningful causes.
Last year, we raised $272, and this year, thanks to the increased awareness among our learners, we raised $584 together for cancer research.
Beyond the fundraising, our learners now better understand how events like the Terry Fox Walk are woven into the cultural fabric of Canada, promoting community, hope, and generosity—values that define what it means to be Canadian.
