The Finishing Touch — Weddings, Events, Design, Paperie

A few months ago my friend and I thought it would be fun to sign up for a couple of charity walks in New York City. We chose to raise money for both the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Alzheimer’s Association. Our friends and family contributed to our fund raiser which allowed us to be able to walk in October.

Sunday morning, October 12th, my friend and I trekked into the Bronx (getting a little lost on the way!) and headed into the Bronx Zoo. I thought this was a great location for a charity walk as it was entertaining for people of all ages. We checked in, enjoyed the live entertainment, received a t-shirt and ate breakfast. At 11 AM the gates opened to us and we were free to roam the zoo all day! They even gave us passes to all the rides and exhibits. Heather and I took our time visiting the many different animals they have and even got to learn about some of their lifestyles. It was very rewarding to walk around and pass so many fund raising teams wearing matching t-shirts, some indicating who they were walking for. Many smiles, waves and cheers were exchanged throughout the day. Although it wasn't a mapped-out route, Heather and I were exhausted at the end of the day, figuring we had probably walked at least six miles.

Our second walk was even more close to my heart.  In memory of my grandfather, we walked in Riverside Park in Manhattan on Sunday, October 27 for the Alzheimer Association. Upon arrival we were handed our t-shirts for raising at least $100. We enjoyed music, breakfast and an opening ceremony with guest speakers including Bill Ritter of ABC-TV. At 11 AM sharp, the 2-mile walk commenced and people of all ages, some joined by their dogs, joined in the charity walk. Heather and I power- walked our 2 miles and crossed the finish line together.

Signing up as a group to raise money for charities can be a great alternative for a bachelorette party. Creating a team to raise money for a charity of the bride's choosing can be very rewarding and gives a great sense of camaraderie. The day-of the walk, the group of girls can all wear matching t-shirts that you make together as a group-either announcing you are part of the bridal party, or 'in memory' of anyone who was affected by the disease. Be sure to make a day of it by getting there early to enjoy the activities, music and breakfast.  After the walk you can all go to lunch together at a great restaurant to celebrate your accomplishment. It really is a great way to bring people together when you are all there for a combined cause and the best part is that while having a blast you are able to raising money for a great cause.

For more information, you can visit the following sites:

Alzheimer’s website: http://nycmw08.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=273214&lis=1&kntae273214=79BE1DC89F5E4AF79DCE5F65AB530DAF

Diabetes website: http://www.jdrf.org/

Charity Navigator:

http://www.charitynavigator.org/?gclid=CP2buPit2ZYCFQOeFQodU3F-3Q

Have a great day,

Nikki