Edison, NJ: In June 2021, BAPS Charities held its annual walk/run across 70 communities. This year, unlike the past, the event was primarily a virtual one out of concern for the safety of the participants and volunteers due to the ongoing effects of Covid-19. Building from 2020 and continuing its tradition of supporting global and community causes, this year’s walk/run supported Susan G. Komen and its efforts to address breast cancer on multiple fronts, including advocacy, research and patient support.
Participants in this year’s ‘In The Joy Of Others Walk/Run’ collectively pledged to walk 100 million steps. People of all ages took part, from 5-year-old first-time walkers to senior citizens. The event format allowed participants to achieve their steps in a manner they felt comfortable and safe. Over 11,000 registered participants logged over 200 million steps, far exceeding the initial goal.
The virtual event concluded with the organization’s only in-person walk of this year’s event. Organized in conjunction with Susan G. Komen, participants, volunteers, and supporters gathered at the Los Angeles Coliseum in Los Angeles, CA, to recognize the commendable works of both organizations. During the pre-walk ceremony, which included brief speeches by State Senator Maria Elena Durazo along with many other public officials, BAPS Charities presented Susan G. Koman representatives with a $50,000 donation. The gift was leveraged months earlier as part of a matching gift campaign to raise an additional $50,000 for the cause. All matched contributions will go towards supporting Susan G. Komen’s mission in saving lives and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer.
Speaking at the event, Mark Pilon, Executive Director of Susan G. Komen’s efforts in Los Angeles, said, “We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of BAPS Charities. Thanks to your support, we will be able to help more women and men get the care they need to live a longer, healthier life.”
“It’s astonishing to see everyone get together in new, innovative ways, despite such a tough year with the pandemic. The way young and old adapted to the virtual format and spread the word was fantastic,” said Nilkanth Patel, President, BAPS Charities.
“We are so proud of our partnership with BAPS Charities as they are truly a servant-minded organization, and they demonstrate that generosity every day,” said Paula Schneider, President and CEO of Susan G. Komen.
