More than 1K take part in 23rd ARC Walkathon

Local community members reaffirmed their support to the American Red Cross CNMI Chapter, as more than 1,000 participated in Saturday’s 23rd Annual Walkathon.

The walkathon is the centerpiece of various activities held at the 4H Building along Beach Road in Susupe. As early as 6am, walkers, who included babies in their strollers and some pet dogs, were seen cruising along Beach Road to the Garapan Fishing Base and back to the starting point in Susupe.

“We still have yet to get the exact figure, but we were expecting 1,400 to join the walkathon, and around 2,000 people participating in various activities here,” American Red Cross CNMI Chapter executive director John Hirsch said.

“We will get the final numbers once schools and various organizations turn in their registration forms. But most of the participants are students from various schools and these students were joined by their parents,” Hirsh added.

Hirsh said they are hoping to raise $40,000 from the walkathon and pledges from various companies/organizations and individuals with the money to be used in delivering services back to the people.

“Funds collected will stay with the American Red Cross CNMI Chapter and will be used for different services to the community, such as providing training/drills during disasters and other emergency cases, outreach program, and medical services. We are very thankful to various companies, schools, and non-profit organizations in the CNMI for their continued support to the American Red Cross and its worthy cause,” said Hirsch.

Hirsch specifically thanked Subway Restaurants, Coca-Cola Beverage Co. (Micronesia), Inc., and Foremost Foods for providing food and beverages to walkers.

These companies stationed volunteers in various stops from Susupe to Garapan Fishing Base to hand sandwiches, fruits, and cups of water to participants.

Other American Red Cross supporters had their booths set up in Susupe, providing the community with fun activities, such as free throw shooting, face painting, giant bouncing house, and other games for kids.

Health care organizations and companies also provided blood sugar testing, blood pressure checkup, and a five-minute massage to participants.

“Overall, we had activities here that the entire family can enjoy,” Hirsch said.