More than 400 people took part in the 14th Annual Walk & Roll for Disabilities on March 4.
Sponsored by the Meyer Foundation for Disabilities, the event raises money to fund Thursday night rec therapy programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities at the Munroe-Meyer Institute.
The year, the event raised more than $40,000.
“We’re excited that our participation continues to grow, year after year,” said Meyer Foundation President Mary McHale. “For me, it’s exciting to see so many families who have children who are not adults yet but who have a developmental disability.
“They understand what this event is for, that we need to start building programs for our adults with developmental disabilities,” she said.
There were 33 teams involved in this year’s event, McHale said.
Area nonprofits and service organizations attended the event.
Representatives from the Next Chapter Book Club, WhyArts, Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands, Scottish Rite, many MMI departments and other organizations manned tables to provide information to families who came out to support the Walk & Roll.
“It’s nice for our families who might not be familiar with some of the nonprofits,” McHale said. “It’s a great opportunity for them to see what’s out there in the community, and maybe see something appropriate for their child.”
Nicole Giron, associate director of recreational therapy, called the event vital.
“It’s been an incredible partnership,” she said. “I’ve been at the Munroe-Meyer Institute for 17 years, and the Meyer Foundation has always been integral to our operation and support.”
The Millard North Sparkles Cheerleaders team was out at the event for a second year.
“We had a really good time last year, and since we are an inclusive cheer team, and this is supporting people with disabilities, like some of our students have, we think it’s a good opportunity,” said coach Tricia Rohde. “And maybe we have future students out here that will know about us and want to come be a part of it.”
“It’s really cool,” agreed co-coach Amanda Abbey. “Having our girls cheer them on, it’s fun.”