The 30th Annual COTS Walk, presented by National Life Group, kicks off from Battery Park at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 5. Register today: http://bit.ly/2CBUzkW.
The Walk, presented by National Life Group, kicks off at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 5. 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. Last year, COTS served nearly 2,400 people (including 756 children); COTS 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 $215,000. 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.
The COTS Walk is an engaging family-friendly community event that educates people about homelessness and helps get our community closer to the time and place where no one is homeless. For the past several years, COTS has selected a Walk theme that centers around the organization's core values and programs. This year's message is "Lift Every Voice Because Everyone Deserves A Home." That theme is symbolically represented by "bubbles," which will be incorporated throughout the Walk. There also will be thought bubbles along the route that will include the words of the people COTS serves, as well as school choirs singing.
COTS encourages parents, teachers, and others to take the opportunity to talk about "what bubbles up for you" when you hear the word "homeless." COTS has developed and has available educational materials and resources on how to start and facilitate a conversation around the issues surrounding homelessness. COTS can provide speakers and guidance; contact COTS for more information.
There is no minimum fundraising required for participation in the COTS Walk. However, to earn a COTS Walk T-shirt 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 Walk 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.)
Learn more at www.cotsonline.org or call (802) 864-7402 for more information.
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