Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities Grant

– The accessible space for sport and play will be an extension of the ongoing Active Living Centre (ALC) project along Marathon’s waterfront –

June 22, 2025 – The Town of Marathon has been selected to receive a Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities (Jumpstart) grant towards building an inclusive, multi-sport court along the community’s waterfront. The announcement was made this past weekend at the Jumpstart Month celebrations at Marathon’s Canadian Tire retail location, a supporter of the upcoming multi-sport court project.

The inclusive play space will expand the ongoing Active Living Centre (ALC) project, adding a safe, accessible, and community-driven space for all residents and visitors to engage in physical activity, social interaction, and healthy living. Guided by Jumpstart best practices, the inclusive, multi-sport court will feature accessible surfacing, enhanced visibility, and space for both traditional and adaptive sports such as basketball, sitting volleyball, pickleball, and wheelchair tennis. 

The inclusive multi-sport court will enhance the ALC as a community hub, complementing other planned amenities and expanding year-round access to recreational facilities in Marathon. 

“The new multi-sport court is a significant step forward for Marathon, promoting healthy living, community involvement, and accessible recreation for all residents,” said Mayor Rick Dumas, Town of Marathon. “The Town of Marathon, Jumpstart and Canadian Tire Marathon are united in their commitment to making sport and play accessible to all, ensuring every child, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to belong, grow, and thrive in Northwestern Ontario.”

“At Jumpstart, we are committed to supporting community partners with funding and guidance on how best to develop safe and inclusive play spaces for kids of all abilities,” said Stuart McReynolds, AVP, Programs & Advocacy, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. “Together with the Town of Marathon and our friends at Canadian Tire Marathon, we are proud to have played a part in bringing this multi-sport court to life as we build strong community ties through the power of play.”  

“This inclusive multi-sport court represents more than just a place to play; it’s a place where dreams take root, where friendships are built, and where kids from across Northwestern Ontario can feel like they belong,” said Mahsa Shidvash and Hamidreza Homayouni, Associate Dealers of Canadian Tire Marathon. “As someone who believes deeply in the power of sport to shape lives, I’m beyond proud to be part of a project that will inspire generations to move, connect, and grow right here in the community of Marathon.”

Construction timelines and details surrounding the official court unveiling and community celebration will be shared in the coming months.

About the Town of Marathon 
The Town of Marathon is a small but vibrant community on the north shore of Lake Superior. Known for its natural beauty, strong sense of community, and commitment to innovation, Marathon delivers essential public services and leads strategic initiatives that support sustainable growth and community well-being. With a focus on regional leadership in housing, recreation, and economic development, the Town works to enhance the quality of life for all residents.