Walkers and runners are able to make a positive difference in the life of someone with a disability by participating and raising funds. Money raised supports Easter Seals UCP's lifelong programs and services that provide support, care and hope to children and adults living with disabilities and mental health challenges in the Charlotte metro community.
This year's goal is to raise $150,000 to support the nonprofit's mission of creating opportunities, promoting individual choice and changing the lives of children and adults with disabilities by maximizing their individual potential to live, learn and work in their communities.
"Walk With Me is a unique event because it brings people of all abilities together," said Brooke Porter, Charlotte area development manager for Easter Seals UCP. "Our walkers' support makes it possible for Easter Seals UCP to continue to provide meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities in our area to live with equality, dignity and independence."
More than 13 percent of the population in North Carolina lives with a disability - a 4 percent increase from just 2009 to 2010 according to the 2011 Annual Statistics Compendium compiled by the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Disability Statistics and Demographics. Easter Seals UCP has felt this significant growth with a 27 percent increase in service hours provided over the past year. Specifically in the Charlotte metro area, Easter Seals UCP provided 556,357 hours of service over the past year, which accounts for 17 percent of all children, families and adults served by the nonprofit serving North Carolina and Virginia.
About Easter Seals UCP North Carolina & Virginia
Easter Seals UCP is a lifelong partner to people managing disabilities and mental health challenges. Established in 1945, our nonprofit serves more than 20,000 individuals and their families across North Carolina and Virginia through an array of community-based services and solutions. We light the runway, helping people find their own voices, make their own choices, and discover innovative solutions to their challenges. For more information on Easter Seals UCP North Carolina & Virginia, please visit www.eastersealsucp.com
