The Walk of Hope, the major fundraiser for the Cancer Support Center in Homewood, will be happening on Sunday, Oct. 4, both through downtown Homewood and virtually.
The Walk of Hope will give the community a chance to support the center by choosing an 8:30, 10 or 11:30 a.m. time slot on that Sunday to walk a 1- or 3-mile route. Each group will leave from the Cancer Support Center, 2028 Elm Road in Homewood. Each time slot is limited to 50 people to provide social distancing between walkers or walker groups.
Knowing that many Cancer Support Center supporters have compromised immune systems, the staff is also encouraging “virtual walks” that supporters, their friends or family can do with whomever, wherever and whenever. Virtual parties are asked to submit photos or video clips to the Cancer Support Center that will be posted to the website.
The center continues to offer its services throughout the pandemic but nearly everything has moved to Zoom, YouTube and other virtual methods.
“Our cancer patients have been facing even more challenges due to the pandemic and we have shifted all of our programs virtually to provide care,” said Executive Director Sue Armato. “Even with this increased demand for care, raising funds has been a challenge” at a time when funding is critical.
The Walk of Hope registration fee is $19 for adults and $15 for youth ages 5 to 18. Online registrations are being accepted at www.cancersupportcenter.org or by phone at 708-995-0363. Donations are being accepted via the website, or mailed to the center at 2028 Elm Road, Homewood, IL 60430.