Our History and Mission

At Outrun the Stigma, our goal is to contribute to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health that prevents people from expressing their authentic selves, discussing their experiences, seeking support, or feeling a sense of belonging in their community. 

Outrun the Stigma began in 2013 when a group of students at the University of Calgary identified a gap in the running culture for runs that raise mental health awareness. As running events assume an important role in garnering attention, resources, and public support for health issues, Outrun the Stigma organizes an annual 5km walk/run and 10km run by the same name that brings community members together to discuss mental health experiences, listen to a community speaker share their experience, connect community members with resources, and support local mental health services.  

Since October 2013, Outrun the Stigma has organized six annual events, each bringing together over 800 students, community members, and volunteers and raising over $221,000 for Distress Centre Calgary. Beyond the annual run, Outrun the Stigma aims to facilitate year long dialogue and activities that address mental health stigma through partnership with community organizations, universities, and grassroots initiatives.

Apart from the numbers, OTS is much more than a run and fundraiser. OTS is an initiative to mobilize awareness to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and mental illness.

2022 Event

In support of the Distress Centre Calgary and to raise awareness around mental health, Outrun the Stigma Calgary is hosting a virtual 10km run this year. The run will take place on the weekend of September 16th to 18th where participants will have a chance to hear from local organizations about mental health and staying active, as well as win prizes.

During your run, or whichever other activity you would like to do, we encourage you to wear OTS colours and track your activity for a chance to win prizes!