CALGARY, October 18, 2026: University of Calgary students have organized a community fundraising event to raise money and awareness for organizations providing free legal assistance to people who may otherwise struggle to access the justice system.
The event, organized by the university’s undergraduate Access to Justice Club, featured a five-kilometre run and a one-kilometre community walk on Saturday. Organizers hoped to raise $50,000 to support local pro bono legal clinics serving individuals who need legal advice, guidance and representation but cannot afford private legal services.
Zahraa Virk, president of the Access to Justice Club, said the initiative aims to help community members better understand their legal rights and identify the resources available when they face legal challenges.
Navigating the justice system can be complicated, particularly for people unfamiliar with legal procedures or unable to pay for professional assistance. The participating organizations work to make legal support more accessible by helping individuals understand their options and determine the appropriate steps to take.
One of the beneficiaries is Student Legal Assistance, a University of Calgary service operated by law students under the supervision of practising lawyers.
The clinic assists people dealing with a range of legal matters, including employment disputes, criminal issues, traffic tickets and contract disagreements. Depending on the circumstances, individuals may receive advice, guidance or representation in court.
Virk emphasized that such services play an important role in helping people understand their legal situations and make informed decisions.
The fundraising initiative also supports Calgary Legal Guidance and Pro Bono Law Alberta, two organizations that help connect individuals with legal resources and assistance.
Through their work, these organizations aim to reduce barriers to justice and ensure that people facing legal difficulties know where to seek help.
Saturday’s event was affected by strong winds, which forced organizers to shorten much of the planned afternoon programming. Despite the weather disruption, the run and community walk provided an opportunity to bring participants together around a shared commitment to improving access to legal services.
The initiative highlights the role university students can play in addressing community needs beyond the classroom. By combining fundraising with public awareness, the Access to Justice Club hopes to strengthen support for organizations that help vulnerable individuals navigate legal challenges.
Organizers say the funds raised will go toward the participating pro bono clinics, helping sustain services that connect people with the advice, representation and resources they need.
The event also serves as a reminder that access to justice is not simply about having laws and courts in place. It also requires ensuring that people understand their rights and can obtain meaningful legal assistance when problems arise.
For the University of Calgary students involved, the charity run was an opportunity to turn their interest in law and public service into practical support for the wider Calgary community.
Courtesy: ctvnews
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