On April 26, hundreds of people will gather once again at the McHugh Bluff Stairs — climbing not just for the challenge, but for something bigger.
This year marks the 15th anniversary of Steps to End Homelessness, a milestone that reflects both the strength of a community and the enduring legacy of its founder, Suzanne West.
Hosted by Inn from the Cold, the event supports families experiencing housing instability by helping them access shelter, programs and the supports they need to move toward stability and a safe place to call home.
What began as a personal challenge has grown into a powerful tradition — one that has raised more than $800,000 to support families in our community. Each year, that impact is amplified thanks to Suzanne’s family, whose charity, the Power of One Foundation, matches donations made through the event.
A simple idea that grew into something more
Suzanne didn’t set out to create a large-scale community event.
“Her initial vision was to do 45 sets of stairs for her 45th birthday to see if she could,” Kathy, Suzanne’s sister, recalls. “When she asked who would join her, no one answered. When she decided to make it for a charity, a lot ‘stepped’ up to help. She was inspired by people that gave pain in service to other human beings.”
That shift — from personal goal to collective purpose — was the beginning of something much bigger.
The first event was modest. A small group gathered, with simple sign-up sheets taped to a table to keep them from blowing away. But even in those early days, there was momentum building.
“Very small, year after year it grew bigger,” says Kathy.
From those humble beginnings, Steps to End Homelessness has grown into a beloved annual event — one that continues to bring people together in support of families working toward stability.
A legacy built on strength and resilience
Fifteen years is often referred to as a crystal anniversary — a symbol of clarity, strength and resilience. It’s a fitting reflection of both the event and the woman behind it.
“My sister was the epitome of strength and resilience and inspired so many others to be the same,” Kathy shares. “Not only our family, but friends, co-workers and the endless free boot camps that she ran. Even in her final days of fighting cancer, she still emphasized, ‘I still have so many things to do and change the world.’”
Suzanne’s determination and compassion shaped everything she did. She was driven to support those who were often overlooked.
“Suzanne always was the supporter of the ‘underdog’,” Kathy says. “The one that was overlooked, or underestimated. She wanted to help those who didn’t normally get assistance.”
That same spirit continues to define Steps to End Homelessness today.
A community that keeps climbing
Over the years, the event has evolved, growing in both size and impact. What has remained constant is the community behind it.
“The people who participate and the wonderful staff at The INN who have taken it over and have made it the amazing event that it is today,” Kathy says. That sense of community is what has given the event its staying power — people showing up year after year, stepping up for one another and for families in need.
And Suzanne would no doubt be right there with them.
“She would be SOOO happy!” Kathy says. “The stairs event was her favourite day of the year. She got energy from all the people that would show up to help a good cause.”
Continuing the work through Power of One
While Suzanne’s vision sparked the event, her legacy continues through the Power of One Foundation — created by Suzanne and carried forward by Kathy and their family.
Each year, the foundation matches donations to Steps to End Homelessness, doubling the impact for families supported by Inn from the Cold.
For Kathy, that work is deeply personal.
“When she created the Foundation, we often talked about how we would like to impact others’ lives,” she says. “I have always managed the Foundation, done the leg work, researched and meet with people with her support. Whenever I do something with the foundation, it helps me to stay connected to her and feel her vision come to life.”
It’s a quiet but powerful continuation of Suzanne’s mission — ensuring that her commitment to helping others lives on in a tangible way.
A day that still means everything
For Kathy, attending the event each year is a reminder of just how far it has come.
“Every year that I come, it makes me so happy to see her favourite day of the year be made into the event that it now is,” she says. “She would love to see all the families and people that come out to support such a good cause.”
This year’s event, held on Suzanne’s birthday, carries special meaning — a moment to reflect, celebrate and continue moving forward.
An invitation to take the first step
For those considering joining for the first time, Kathy offers a simple message:
“Just come and do what you can. You will be inspired by others and the great work that is being done. You will make it an annual event for you and your family.”
It’s a reminder that you don’t have to do it all — you just have to start.
A legacy that lives on
When asked to describe Suzanne’s legacy, Kathy points to a quote that continues to guide her:
“Remember we are capable of such greatness, but we have to be brave and do the things that the world needs us to do.”
She adds, “She always wanted to change the world; the name of the Foundation really says it all. One person can make a difference, and she still is.” Fifteen years later, with every step taken and every dollar raised, Suzanne’s vision continues to climb — carried forward by a community, a family and the belief that change starts with just ONE.
