Kenora, ON – Overcoming rugged terrain, strong winds and periods of blasting rain, 52 cyclists from Winnipeg’s business community rode over 300 km for Ride Around the Lake with the goal of raising more than $500K for Habitat for Humanity Manitoba.

This year’s three-day event held Sept. 5 – 7, had cyclists cut through the rugged Canadian Shield landscape around Lake of the Woods in Northwestern Ontario.

Video by Qualico Communications

“Each year, Ride Around the Lake reminds us why we do what we do— build stronger communities, foster meaningful relationships, and overcome challenges together,” said Kevin Van, President & Chief Executive Officer, Qualico.

This year’s Ride Around the Lake team included seven Qualico employees, representing both new and seasoned riders, some of whom also participated in the Ride Through The Rockies event earlier this summer in Pincher Creek, AB.

In 2024, Qualico riders were part of a team that helped raise a record setting $480K. Since its inception, the event has generated more than $5 million for Habitat for Humanity Manitoba.

To date, $429,551 has been raised for this year’s campaign, with donations accepted until the end of November.

Funds for this year’s event will help build affordable housing for Laura, a single mother originally from Colombia who supports three of her own children and a foster child with special needs. Remaining funds will be used to support other Habitat builds in Manitoba.

Owners of Habitat for Humanity homes contribute 500 volunteer hours in lieu of a downpayment and pay back special 15-year mortgages fixed at 27% of their household income. Those funds are then re-invested into future Habitat projects in the province.

Photos courtesy of Tom Thomson Photography

Bryan Ward, Vice-President, Qualico Communities, Manitoba & Saskatchewan Region, rode in his first ever Ride Around the Lake this year. As Board Chair for Habitat for Humanity Manitoba, he has a direct connection to the cause.

“It’s been a really great atmosphere and fun to be a part of, and a good reason for me to get out and be more active,” said Bryan while stopping for lunch at the scenic Rushing River rest stop, made possible by Habitat for Humanity volunteers.

“You think about Habitat and the families as you’re here riding your bike, and it’s exciting to be part of that culture and do your own little part to give back.”

Habitat for Humanity Manitoba says that the annual Ride Around the Lake plays a major role in supporting affordable housing projects throughout the year.

“Ride Around the Lake is our biggest fundraiser, and it brings together this special community to raise the most money out of any single event in the year for us,” said Jamie Hall, CEO, Habitat for Humanity Manitoba.

“We are blessed to live in a generous province and have the support from many of the best organizations in Manitoba. This event wouldn’t be what it is without Qualico, who are one of those organizations that top the heap in terms of generosity,” added Jamie, while noting that Qualico also participates in Habitat’s Women Build committee, along with several Team Build Day events throughout the year.

Fundraising activities in support of this year’s Ride Around Lake continue until November 30. To learn more, or donate, visit Habitat for Humanity Manitoba’s website