Supporters gear up for Moving Day Walks in 33 US cities this spring
Parkinson's Foundation's event has raised more than $50M since 2011
Moving Day, a signature fundraiser for the Parkinson’s Foundation, will join communities this spring to raise awareness and money to support care for people with Parkinson’s disease, and advance research toward better treatments.
The events will take place in 33 cities across the U.S. from March 15 to June 8. Registration is now open for local events, where participants of all ages and physical ability may join individually or as a team. The events celebrate movement, which is proven to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms.
In addition to local events, the foundation hosts a virtual walking event, called Moving Day@Home, where supporters anywhere in the country may participate from March 15 to June 15, with the goal of raising $20,000.
“Our signature Moving Day Walk continues to reach areas in need of vital Parkinson’s resources, support and human connection,” Kayln Henkel, senior vice president and chief advancement officer of the foundation, said in a press release. “We are energized and inspired by the dedication of every person who plays a part in Moving Day to unite under a shared common goal — to improve care and advance research toward a cure.”
Besides the walk, the Moving Day experience includes Parkinson’s-friendly fitness demonstrations, information booths, and the foundation’s We Move Ceremony.
Help with fundraising available
Fundraising tools are available online, including a social media toolkit, guides for first-time participants and team captains, and tips on how to raise funds. These tips include telling family and friends to donate to the event as a birthday gift; hosting an exercise class, selling food, or doing volunteer work for donations; or sharing participants’ fundraisers on social media.
Starting at $100 of funds raised, participants can earn rewards, including a Moving Day T-shirt, an insulated cooler bag, a dri-FIT hat, and a sweatshirt.
Funds raised through Moving Day will support the foundation’s mission of delivering quality care and providing free resources and local services for people with Parkinson’s and their families. The goal is also to drive research to help develop new treatments and ultimately a cure for the disease.
Since 2011, more than 202,000 participants have gathered for Moving Day events to raise more than $50 million. Some examples of how funds are used include providing educational resources and publications to help patients navigate their disease journey and take control of their health. Funds can also be used to offer exercise classes for people with Parkinson’s, at no cost to them.
Additionally, raised funding helps finance research grants for breakthrough research in the disease, and support genetic testing and counseling through the foundation’s PDGENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson’s Disease initiative at no cost to patients.
“Fundraising for the Moving Day Walk in honor of my brother, who lives with Parkinson’s disease, has been a highlight of the last five years,” said Gregory Polchow, volunteer and team captain of Moving Day San Francisco. “I am forever grateful to the work of the Parkinson’s Foundation, for providing crucial resources for people with Parkinson’s, like their Hospital Safety Guide, and contributing to a better quality of life.”
Those seeking more information on Moving Day, in English or Spanish, can call the Parkinson’s Foundation’s helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (473-4636).
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