We are thrilled to announce that our 25th Annual Support-A-Walk will take place this year on Sunday, Oct. 6 at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights. To mark this momentous silver anniversary, we have created a special Walk logo and a commemorative video.
Nancy and Rich’s dream grew. They decided to create a place where those living with breast and ovarian cancer could turn for support, understanding, and guidance. So, using the proceeds from that first Walk, Support Connection opened its doors in September, 1996. Ever since, proceeds from the Annual Support-A-Walk have continued to help fund our year-round breast and ovarian cancer support services, which have helped thousands of people.
The video starts with the story of the first Walk, held on October 1, 1995. The two co-founders were Nancy Heller, a breast cancer survivor, and the late Rich Adamski, who was motivated by his love for his wife Myra who died of breast cancer. Their vision was to create an event that would bring attention to the needs of people affected by breast and ovarian cancer. With help from a small group of dedicated, passionate supporters, that first Walk was a big success.
The commemorative video is an inspiring, moving portrayal of how the Support-A-Walk has grown over the years, and the difference it has made in the lives of so many people. There are personal interviews with people who have been involved with the Walk and with people who have benefited from our services.
The video was produced by Bill Powers, an Emmy Award-Nominated TV producer, two-time national Telly TV Award winner, and national Beacon Award winner for media relations. Bill is also a dedicated and well-respected community leader, and is Executive Director of the Peekskill Business Improvement District. He has created several powerful videos for Support Connection.
The special 25th Walk logo, created by Kelly Duke McKinley, features the tagline “Side by Side for 25” along with our iconic heart-and-hands symbol. Kelly is Co-Principal and Creative Director of pak creative, an award-winning brand, marketing, and communication team with 30 years of combined experience. Pak Creative specializes in everything graphic design, with clients from the corporate level to the not-for-profit level, and everyone in between.
Each year the Support-A-Walk draws thousands of participants from across the Hudson Valley and beyond. People of all ages complete a 3-mile walk, often in honor of loved ones – a celebration of life and a tribute to those affected by breast and ovarian cancer. There is a Survivor’s Welcome Area. Along the Walk path, walkers are encouraged by local bands, cheerleaders and other community groups. Families, friends, co-workers and teams of walkers are invited to walk together. Individuals are also welcome to participate.
It’s easy to participate even if you can’t attend. Donations are accepted by check, cash, and online. Supporters can raise funds by creating personal online fundraising pages to ask friends and family for donations. Messages of support, celebration or commemoration can be displayed on along the Walk path by purchasing Tribute Signs for $50 each.
Support Connection does not receive funds from any national cancer organizations including Relay for Life, Susan G. Komen or Making Strides. By participating in or donating to the Support-A-Walk, community members can make a positive difference in the lives of women and families facing the challenges of a breast or ovarian cancer diagnosis.
To learn more, visit supportconnection.org/support-a-walk. Or contact us: 914-962-6402 or walk@supportconnection.org.