The air over the Arboretum trails will be just a little more colourful than usual next week – but don’t be alarmed.

On October 19, Humber is hosting the Canadian Cancer Society’s Colours of Hope five-kilometre run, which will raise money for cancer research and support. The event, which is non-competitive and family friendly, builds on the recent popularity of other “colour runs” like Run or Dye, blasting participants with all-natural multi-coloured cornstarch as they pass each kilometre mark.

“We wanted to plan something fun, something out of the box, and promote an active, healthy lifestyle,” explains Brittany Russell, the Canadian Cancer Society’s Ontario Relay for Life co-ordinator. “It’s a great opportunity to be active, get a little silly, and still raise money and awareness for an important cause. Just remember to bring make-up wipes for cleaning up afterwards!”

Humber students with valid ID get a discount on the registration fee, and all participants will receive a free white race t-shirt – the better to show off all those pretty, powdery colours.

“As a Humber grad, I knew that the school has an incredible population of students who could get involved in something like this,” says Leviana Coccia, who graduated from the Event Management postgraduate certificate this year, and now works at the Canadian Cancer Society. “I’m really looking forward to seeing how many students we can get to participate and show off that exuberant Humber community spirit.”

And if you don’t feel like getting messy? There are volunteer opportunities as well.

To register, check out Running Room’s Colours of Hope race page. For more information, contact Ali Hodgins at ahodgins@ontario.cancer.ca or 416-323-7112.