Red Deer has once again earned the title of Alberta’s Most Active Community for 2025 – winning a $15,000 prize after residents and organizations got active throughout June during the 2025 ParticipACTION Community Challenge presented by Novo Nordisk.
The sixth edition of the ParticipACTION Community Challenge, a national physical activity and sport initiative that encourages everyone to get active throughout June, ended with Red Deer earning the title of Alberta’s Most Active Community and winning funds to support local physical activity and sport initiatives.
“I couldn’t be more proud of Red Deer! To be named Alberta’s Most Active Community for the fourth year in a row is an outstanding achievement that speaks to the heart of who we are – energetic, connected, and deeply committed to wellness," said Mayor Ken Johnston. Year after year, our residents, organizations, and volunteers rise to the challenge, and this year was no different. Congratulations, Red Deer – this victory belongs to all of us!"
This year’s success was powered by a strong network of local partners, including Move Your Mood Recovery Alberta, the City of Red Deer, Primary Care Network, Red Deer Polytechnic, the Sheldon Kennedy Centre of Excellence, Red Deer Public Library, and many others. Together, they helped deliver a wide range of free and accessible activities throughout June that encouraged residents of all ages to get involved.
“Each year, this challenge brings out the very best in our community, and 2025 was no exception,” said Denise Fredeen, Move Your Mood Coordinator with Recovery Alberta. “It’s the collaboration between local organizations – nearly 90 of them this year – that makes the magic happen. From planning inclusive events to promoting active living, our partners worked tirelessly to make sure there was something for everyone. That’s what truly makes Red Deer stand out.”
Highlights included a Kickoff June Community Better walk-run at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre, a traditional lunchtime walk with the Mayor, engaging library programming, beginner orienteering sessions, and the popular “30 Ways to Get Active in Red Deer” calendar. A daily Community Better Red Deer social media campaign also inspired residents with tips and ideas for staying active at home and in the community.
For the sixth consecutive year, Red Deer has proudly participated in the June ParticipACTION Community Challenge – an initiative that has grown in momentum, engaging residents and a wide network of local organizations. Over the years, the community has celebrated incredible achievements, including being named Canada’s Most Active Community in 2022 and Alberta’s Most Active Community in both 2023 and 2024.
Thank you to everyone who participated – your energy, enthusiasm, and commitment continue to make Red Deer a stronger, healthier, and more connected place to live, work and play.