“Run with empathy. Support families in need.” That’s the motto of the 2021 Footsteps for Families jogathon charity event happening this Saturday, July 3.
The event, co-hosted by Running Medicine and the Native Health Initiative, is an opportunity for New Mexicans to come together, walk or run together, and raise money for struggling community members – together.
Families in need surround us, often struggling in silence. With the economic effects of COVID-19, their struggles will continue or even worsen.
“I think the bigger idea with Footsteps for Families is that no one likes asking for help, even when they’re in need,” said organizer Nehemiah Cionelo. “By simply participating and getting involved, we’re showing our support for those families, kind of in solidarity, even if they don’t want to immediately ask for help.”
The event is happening from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Johnson Field at UNM’s Main Campus. People can run or walk, raising money each mile to support families in need. There will also be a school supply drive accepting donations. Participants can earn an event t-shirt by getting individual sponsors to donate for every mile they walk; and businesses can sign up to sponsor too.
Tax-deductible donations can be made by visiting www.lovingservice.com.
In Summer 2020, the same event raised about $3,000 and completed more than 850 miles. This year, the goal is 1,000 miles and $10,000.
Click here to read an Albuquerque Journal story on the 2020 event and the Lobo who first organized it. Contact nemocoionelo@gmail.com for more information or to sign up as a sponsor.