Walk at the happiest place on earth on Sunday, October 16, 2011 for the 21st annual CHOC Walk in the Park presented by Disneyland® Resort. Proceeds from the walk will support the care, education, and research at CHOC, and as CHOC is expanding their services so is the number of children they are helping.
Every step counts. Form a team with your school or student group, and if that option is not available, register to walk as an individual. And if you cannot make it on the 16th, you can register as a Sleeping Bear or make a general donation to CHOC. Register online at www.chocwalk.org. There is no registration fee, but walkers must raise a minimum of $50 in order to be eligible to walk.
Prior to the Walk, walkers must check in at the temporary CHOC Walk Office located at Kia Motors America in Irvine to turn in the funds collected as well as pick up their t-shirt and wristband that gives them access to the Walk. If you are unavailable to check in, you can have someone go on your behalf and provide your name.
KIA Motors America
111 Peters Canyon Road
Irvine, CA 92606
Check In Times:
Saturday, October 8, 11 A.M.-3 P.M.
Sunday, October 9, 11 A.M.-3 P.M.
Thursday, October 13, 12 P.M.-8 P.M.
Friday, October 14, 12 P.M.-8 P.M.
Saturday, October 15, 10 A.M.-3 P.M.
Aside from participating in the Walk, you can also give your time by volunteering prior to the walk. Volunteers are still needed on October 13 and 14 to assist with check-in. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and comfortable using computers and counting money. However, do not feel daunted since volunteers will receive training at the start of their shift.
For more information, visit www.chocwalk.org. For additional updates and information, become a fan of CHOC Walk in the Park on Facebook or follow @chocchildrens on Twitter.
I participated in CHOC Walk a few years ago in 2008 through my high school’s FBLA and Key Club. Though we had to wake up early on a Sunday morning, it was a very worthwhile experience. Doing anything with friends is always exciting, but what made the experience very unique was that we got to see the park from a different view and be a part of the thousands of walkers.
Though it is early in the morning, the energy level was high with all the Disney characters in the park and event sponsors cheering you on. It was truly very encouraging as well as inspirational. However, no matter what you are doing, the best feeling is knowing that you were able a difference.
Have you participated in CHOC Walk or any other walk before? How do you give back to your community? Share your stories with us!