Saturday, May 22, 2010

Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community Benefits SBAWP

The Spina Bifida Association of Western Pennsylvania (SBAWP) raised over $9,500 from the Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community, which took place May 22 at Schenley Park at Flagstaff Hill. Rain did not deter SBAWP clients and supporters from participating in the Walk, and it did not dampen their spirits. The SBAWP will use all the money raised to support the many programs offered to individuals with spina bifida and other disabilities and their families.

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield sponsors and underwrites the annual event, which this year brought together 58 organizations in southwestern Pennsylvania. In 2003, Pittsburgh was the site of the initial Walk for a Healthy Community. This year, walks will also occur in Erie, Harrisburg and Bethlehem.

This is the first year that the SBAWP participated in the event. One hundred twenty-four registered walkers showed great enthusiasm and support as they sought sponsors and participated in the walk. The event included a 5K Walk and One-Mile Fun Walk. The majority of SBAWP participants chose the latter because of the flat terrain of the course.

"For our first year of participation, I am overjoyed at the response of our clients and their families, our staff and their families in support of this effort!" said Dick Lynch, Executive Director of the SBAWP. "To raise over $9,500 in our inaugural year tells me how much everyone believes in what we are doing to serve the people in our area."

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