THIS SATURDAY (AUG 22): STEP OUT IN SUPPORT OF THOSE WITH DISABILITIES

Lace up your sneakers and head to Castaldo Park in Woodridge this Saturday, August 22… or don’t. Either way, people of all ages and abilities can participate in Voice of Care’s fourth annual Mile for Mileage. The yearly pledge walk raises money to support this Lutheran ministry serving people with disabilities, their caregivers, and the congregations reaching out to them.

Even those on vacation and people with mobility issues can participate, as actual walking is not mandatory. “Last year we began using the online tool Razoo to help participants fundraise through social media,” explained Deaconess Kris Blackwell, Voice of Care’s Executive Director, “And while it is a fun event, you don’t actually have to attend to help raise money to cover the $10,000 in mileage expenses incurred by Voice of Care staff each year.” Voice of Care representatives travel across the region training churches and individuals to serve those with disabilities in their communities with inclusive programming and respite care solutions.

Individual walkers, families, and group teams can register online at www.voiceofcare.org and can compete to raise funds at varying levels.

The Mile for Mileage event includes a mile-long walk on wheelchair accessible sidewalks around Castaldo Park, located at 3024 71st Street in Woodridge [MAP: http://goo.gl/mc1lR1]. A box lunch picnic is provided, as are bottled water and a t-shirt (while supplies last) for each registered participant. Prizes will be awarded to the individual, family, and team who meet raise pledges in qualifying amounts. The walk will occur rain or shine.

Those without access to a computer or churches desiring to register as a group can contact Blackwell at 630.234.1491 or vocexec@voiceofcare.org. Donations are also accepted via check payable to Voice of Care and mailed to Voice of Care, P.O. Box 251, West Chicago, IL 60186.