The “Haul for Hope” is a unique charity event where volunteers come together to pull a massive WestJet plane across a hangar at Edmonton International Airport (EIA). The event is organized to support local charities, with funds raised going toward causes like children’s hospitals, cancer research, and community programs.
This event involves teams of volunteers, each composed of individuals, local businesses, or other organizations, who work together to literally lug the WestJet plane—typically a Boeing 737, weighing several tons—across a designated distance. The aim is not just to complete the physical challenge but to raise awareness and funds for the selected charities. Often, these types of charity events are part of larger efforts to support health-related causes, such as the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation or other similar initiatives.
The spectacle of volunteers pulling a large airplane serves as a powerful metaphor for the strength and resilience of communities coming together to support those in need. Each participant is often sponsored, meaning their efforts contribute to the overall fundraising goals. In some cases, the event may involve friendly competition between teams to see who can pull the plane the fastest or raise the most money. It’s not just about the physical feat but also about fostering a sense of camaraderie and community spirit.
“Haul for Hope” is one example of how large corporations like WestJet leverage their resources, including planes and facilities, to give back to the communities they serve. The event is also a demonstration of corporate social responsibility, as WestJet has long been involved in charitable efforts through its WestJet Cares for Kids program.
Events like these draw significant media attention, which helps the involved charities raise even more funds by increasing public awareness. Participants, spectators, and the media coverage combine to make “Haul for Hope” an inspiring annual event, underscoring the impact of collective action toward charity.
By turning something as technical and business-driven as an airport hangar and a commercial aircraft into tools for goodwill, “Haul for Hope” transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, providing much-needed financial support to local organizations and demonstrating the power of people working together for a common cause.