Register Today
The 26th Annual COTS Walk kicks off at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 3. The fundraiser is a 3.5-mile trek around downtown Burlington starting from Battery Park, following the route a person who is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless might travel to receive shelter and services.
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 2,000 people 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 $180,000. 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.
Up to 1,500 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 by the Dixie Six, and free Ben & Jerry's ice cream for walkers. (A shorter route is available, particularly designed for families with young children.)
There is no minimum fundraising required for participation. However, walkers can elect to go the extra mile by taking the “challenge” and pledging to raise $1,000. A challenge grant matches money raised by these walkers. Challenge Walkers also receive special recognition at the COTS annual meeting.
Register online at www.cotsonline.org or call (802) 864-7402 for more information. Check-in begins at 1 p.m.; the walk begins at 2 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome. The Walk itself takes about an hour.
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