Registration is now open for the 29th Annual COTS Walk. Darn Tough Vermont will donate 100 pairs of socks to guests in COTS shelters in honor of the first 100 people to register: http://bit.ly/2D5E6rx. Please help us reach that first Walk milestone.
The Walk, presented by National Life Group, kicks off at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 6, at Battery Park in Burlington. This is the one day of the year that the nationally recognized nonprofit opens its programs to the community so people can see how their donations make a difference. COTS serves about 2,400 people (including 855 children) annually and is the largest provider for people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in Vermont.
The Walk – COTS' largest single-day fundraiser -- is a critical part of the organization's overall fundraising for the year. This year's fundraising event goal is $200,000. Through the support of generous sponsors, all money raised by walkers goes directly to services. About 50 percent of COTS' annual operating budget comes directly from community support.
There is no minimum fundraising required for participation. However, to earn a COTS Walk T-shirt, designed by local cartoonist Rachel Lindsay, walkers need to raise at least $150 (or $75 for age 12 and younger). For Walkers who elect to go the extra mile by taking the "COTS Walk Challenge" and pledging to raise $1,000, a generous challenge grant will match these donations. Challenge Walkers will receive a COTS Walk T-shirt, water bottle, and special recognition at the COTS annual meeting. (COTS Walkers can take the Challenge as a Team with a goal of raising $2,500 for the match.)
About 2,000 walkers of all ages -- from schools, social and religious organizations, businesses and neighborhoods -- participate. About 200 volunteers help make it happen, too. The family-friendly event includes children's activities, face painting, music, and free Ben & Jerry's ice cream for walkers. (A shorter route is available, particularly designed for families with young children.)
Register online at www.cotsonline.org or call (802) 864-7402 for more information.
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