Arc of Chester County’s fundraiser goes virtual
WEST CHESTER » The Arc of Chester County’s biggest fundraiser has gone virtual, a solution to canceling the physical event following the COVID-19 crisis.
The May 17 Bubble Walk, Run & Fun is the largest fundraising event for The Arc, benefiting services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The decision to change the event format was made following the governor’s stay-at-home mandate, and to keep everyone safe. The Arc serves many individuals considered at-risk and susceptible to the virus.
“Our first priority is to keep our participants, families, staff, volunteers, and community partners safe. Second, we want to make sure no one is left behind during this pandemic. Now more than ever, families, children, and adults with disabilities, are relying on our supports and services. The virtual walk and run is a fun way to rally together as a community, and secure much needed funding for those we support all year long, and through this pandemic,” said The Arc Executive
Director Jeanne Meikrantz.
Last year the event raised $100,000 for much needed services and supports, and welcomed nearly 350 runners and walkers to West Goshen Community Park in West Chester. Adults and kids alike, walked through bubble stations along a onemile course or ran a 5K through adjacent neighborhoods. Many event-goers walked as a team to champion inclusivity and their loved ones with disabilities.
This year’s decision to go virtual gives runners and walkers the freedom to support The Arc’s services and fundraising needs, from the safety of their own neighborhood. The goal is for hundreds of walkers and runners to virtually set out together at 9 a.m. on Sunday, May 17, to complete a mile or 5K, on a course of their choosing.
“This is an opportunity to feel empowered in these unprecedented times. We’ll be out and about in a mass showing of community spirit, that will be happening simultaneously in Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties,” added The Arc Board President Stephen D. Potts.
A social media campaign will post achievements throughout the day with hashtags #ArcRunningStrong and #ArcCCWalkingStrong.
Online individual registration is $25 for the onemile event and $35 for the 5k. Discounted rates apply for group team registration. Each registrant will receive an Arc race package, including a customized drawstring bag, t-shirt, and bubbles, to be distributed after the event when conditions are safe.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support of our community. To date, Arc supporters have lifted us up and humbled us with their well wishes and acts of kindness. We’re so grateful for their support, and rely on this event for much needed funding. It’s that generosity and human spirit we’ve counted on for almost 70 years, that will help us stay strong, together, during this unprecedented time,” added Meikrantz.
For more information on The Arc of Chester County or to register for The Arc virtual Bubble Walk, Run & Fun event visit: www.arcofchestercounty.org/wrf2020.