Walkers gearing up for 25th CROP 10K

Walkers gearing up for 25th CROP 10K

When the group of walkers steps off on May 6 for the 25th annual CROP Walk in Brockport, this year's organizer, Donna Carter, will participate in her 25th as well. "I haven't missed a walk since it started," she said. Carter's mother, Miriam McCauley, who is 83 this year, has walked for the past four years but decided to sit this one out, Carter said.

Carter, who works at the post office in Rochester, stays in shape during the regular course of business on her route but says she truly enjoys the 10K (6.2 mile) CROP Walk because 25 percent of the money raised stays in the Brockport area. "I have a fondness for the Brockport Food Pantry and it's nice that a portion of the money stays local," she said.

Last year, walkers raised more than $11,000 through the individuals who sponsored them. "We're hoping to raise at least 25 percent more than that this year in honor of the anniversary of the walk," Carter said. In the past she has raised $500 or more in sponsorships. "The people that I work with have been really great about sponsoring me in the walk."

The walk, which has the support of several area churches, draws about 100 people annually. At First Baptist we set up tables for four weeks prior to the walk to give walkers, or sponsors, a chance to help out," she said.

The CROP Walk is an annual world-wide event, which although it may not be held on the same day, is sponsored by Church World Services. Of the money raised, 75 percent goes to Church World Services to support the programs it runs for the needy and to provide support during natural disasters.

Participating churches include: Brockport United Methodist, Christ Community, St. Luke's Episcopal, Nativity, The Newman Center, First Presbyterian, Free Methodist, Concordia Lutheran and Garland Methodist.

"Because so much of the money stays local, this walk is important to me. That's why I've participated since the beginning," Carter said.

Registration for the walk begins at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 6 at First Baptist Church, 124 Main Street, Brockport. The walk begins and ends at the church. Walkers are welcome to register the day of the event. Call Carter at 637-6541 for information.

There will be cookies and punch following the event.