Get ready to roll again, Whitchurch-Stouffville.

Rick Hansen Wheels in Motion began six years ago and monies raised benefit spinal cord research as well as local community initiatives to make areas more accessible. Since its inception, Canadians have collectively raised $7.6 million.

This year’s event date is June 8. Eighty per cent of money raised this year will be used in the community.

Since Whitchurch-Stouffville’s participation in 2004, participants have raised just shy of $50,000, according to Martina Bartley, event leader for the town.

Last year, 175 participants raised just over $11,000.

In the past, 50 per cent of the money raised by the town has gone to a number of initiatives, including power doors and an elevated viewing area at the Stouffville Arena, wheelchair-accessible picnic tables in Memorial Park and an elevator and power doors in local churches.

“Individuals have also benefited from the event,” spokesperson Nancy Feasby said. “Adjustable beds have been purchased for two members of the community (who demonstrated need)”.

“It’s great because you can actually see it coming back to the community,” Mrs. Bartley said.

Mrs. Feasby has a personal reason for getting involved in the initiative.

“As a physiotherapist, I see that accessibility is generally poor in most communities,” she said. “Not only are people in wheelchairs affected, but people with canes and moms with strollers. I just think it’s a very worthy cause.”

The event was kicked off with a fundraising and information evening at Boston Pizza April 22.

In addition to answering questions, celebrity servers, including Toronto Maple Keafs assistant coach Keith Acton, who co-owns the restaurant, and Jeff Keeping of the Montreal Alouettes, delivered meals.

Anyone interested in participating in the event can call Martina Bartley at 905-640-4584 or e-mail mbonthenet@hotmail.com

Go to rickhansen.com or call 905-640-6584 for more information.