WHO: The Victory Lap Charity Program is driven by Canadian brands and by local Wal-Mart associates, a group devoted to children’s causes coast-to-coast. Since 2003, this program has raised more than $700,000 for Children’s Miracle Network and their affiliate hospitals across Canada. The program features celebrity ambassadors Andrew Ranger, winner of the 2008 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, and popular racecar driver Alex Tagliani.

WHAT: The program has three pillars: (1) a Racing Program featuring two Tide/Wal-Mart cars competing in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series; (2) Miracle Day events, whereby Champion Children who have overcome illnesses get to live a one-in-a-lifetime experience at a racetrack and (3) a three-province Tour offering consumers the excitement of professional racing and local fundraising.

The Tour offers fun activities for the entire family to participate in and contribute to the cause, in an effort to attain the goal of amassing $300,000 in 2008 for Children’s Miracle Network and its children’s hospitals in North America, 14 of which are in Canada.

The activities include:

An Andrew Ranger replica car on display, offering people a first-hand look at the sleek design and impressive stature of a NASCAR race car.

Complimentary 4X6 photo for people who want to have their picture taken next to the car or at the Victory Lap Winner’s Circle, complete with podium and backdrop. For a small donation, those looking to obtain an 8X10 format will be getting their memorable snapshot on the premises, courtesy of the Kodak Picture Maker.

Two interactive game console units under a 10X10 foot tent will attract gamers, both young and old, for side-by-side competition

Product samples and giveaways from participating tour partners.

WHERE: In 96 Wal-Mart stores in the provinces of Quebec, Ontario and Alberta.

WHEN: Throughout the summer, beginning May 7 in Richmond Hill, Ontario and ending September 27 in Peterborough, Ontario.

WHY: To support Children’s Miracle Network in its efforts to improve the lives of children and enable its hospitals to continue to provide the finest medical care, life-saving research and preventative education in helping millions of youngsters to overcome disease and injuries.