Despite a chilly, brisk morning, nearly 100 people gathered outside Victoria Hall in Cobourg on Saturday, October 17, for the 13th annual Kilometers for Kids, raising $25,000 for Rebound Child and Youth Services.
The annual community fundraiser brought together runners, walkers and cyclists who took to the streets of downtown Cobourg to support programs that provide essential services to children, youth and families throughout Northumberland County.
“We’re very excited to be out on this chilly day,” said Sam Rockbrune, Executive Director of Rebound Child and Youth Services. “We were actually able to surpass our goal, which is really exciting. We raised $25,000 for Rebound Child and Youth Services.”
Participants had the option of taking part in either a 1-kilometre or 5-kilometre route, with the event kicking off at 9:15 a.m. outside Victoria Hall.
The morning concluded at the Lions Pavilion in Victoria Park, where participants and their families could enjoy free peameal bacon on a bun provided by the Lions Club, pumpkin painting, door prizes and other activities. Participants were also encouraged to wear Halloween costumes, with prizes available.
Beyond the fundraising total, Rockbrune said the event represents the strong connection between Rebound and the community it serves.
“We appreciate it so much,” Rockbrune said. “This funding goes towards supporting our core programs, anything innovative we want to do, as all of our programs are offered for no charge all across Northumberland County.”
Rebound provides a range of services, including child and youth mental health support, youth justice programs, its Youth Wellness Hub and youth homelessness prevention.
The need for those services continues to be reflected in the number of people accessing them.
“Last year, we had over 2,200 client services provided.”
Rockbrune also pointed to Rebound’s Port Hope location, which opened in December 2025, as an important development expected to increase the organization’s reach and the number of people accessing its programs.
With mental health affecting families throughout the region, Rockbrune said the turnout was particularly meaningful.
“I think everyone has a story about how Rebound has impacted their lives or how mental health has impacted their lives,” Rockbrune said. “So, it’s great to see everyone come out.”
The $25,000 raised through the 13th annual Kilometers for Kids will help Rebound continue delivering its programs and services free of charge to children and youth across Northumberland County.
On a cold October morning, the community’s message was clear: supporting local children and youth remains a cause worth getting out of bed — and out into the cold — for.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
