Community comes together for Free the Spirit Festival at St. Amant

Hundreds took part in St. Amant’s Free the Spirit Festival, in support of Manitobans with developmental disabilities, autism and brain injuries.

Hundreds gathered at St. Amant on Saturday for the annual Free the Spirit Festival, the organization’s largest fundraiser and a celebration of inclusion, belonging and community.

“It’s a time for staff, family, neighbours and the people we support to come together,” said Ben Adaman, president and CEO of St. Amant. “The funds that we raise here help people in all kinds of ways.”

The event featured a 2K walk and 5K run, live music, food, an artisan market, and family-friendly activities. Despite the rain, Adaman said the turnout was strong and the atmosphere heartwarming.

“We support more than 5,000 Manitobans with developmental disabilities, autism and acquired brain injuries,” said Ben Adaman, president and CEO of St. Amant. “The services we offer include our autism programs for preschool and school-aged kids with autism.

“We have short term stabilization services … we operate about 80 community homes for adults around the province.”

Adaman said the fundraiser will allow the organization to go “beyond basic services.

“It helps us provide specialized mobility equipment, conduct original research, and create more comfortable and therapeutic spaces.”

He added that funds also support preschool autism therapy classrooms, sensory rooms, and recreational spaces that enhance quality of life.

“We’re still tallying the final fundraising total,” Adaman said. “But anyone who missed the event can still donate through our website.”

Adaman closed with a message of gratitude. “It warms my heart every year. It’s a gift to be part of this community, and I’m thankful for everyone who adds love and compassion to it.”