What The WALK Is All About!

Last month we hosted WALK for Vista, the annual autumn fundraiser and walk through Madison and by the shoreline. The event benefits Vista Life Innovations and the Ed Gallant Financial Aid Fund, a fund that provides need-based assistance to Vista members. Nearly 200 people showed up to support the cause and to enjoy the walk down to the beach.

An important component of every year's WALK for Vista are the fundraising teams that band together to raise money and support the event. We talked to two fundraising teams to learn what inspires them to participate in the event and what it means to them personally.

 

The "Pawz for a Cawz" team

First we spoke to Beth Hart, a long time Vista parent and supporter. "We have been doing the WALK for 21 years," Beth said. "Andrew's (Beth's son and Vista member) passion is dog walking and volunteering at the Valley Shore Animal Shelter in Westbrook. We came up with "Pawz for a Cawz" because of Andrew's love for animals and supporting good causes."

Andrew likes to interact with the community by handing out bracelets with important messages on them, like ending derogatory language against people with disabilities or promoting animal rights. "One of those messages was "Pawz for a Cawz" and we stuck with it for our team name," Beth told us. "Supporting the members that benefit from receiving financial support makes it all worth it."

 

"Team Scotty" at the table they set up for the event

We also spoke to Callista Stoddard from "Team Scotty." Scotty is Callista's son and a Vista member. "Vista is just so outstanding, and they've been so wonderful for Scotty," Callista said. "They have provided so much to him and I felt like it was our way to give back to Vista. The atmosphere at the WALK is super fun! I like that they have the Lancraft Fife and Drum Core, and the DJ is so much fun. I love the enthusiasm of all the walkers, and as you go around the whole town of Madison everyone is so welcoming and supportive."

"If you haven't participated in the WALK before, it's just a fun fun day," Callista told us. "From the music to the raffle, it's a great event. The route, especially along the waterfront, is absolutely stunning. So you really get a flavor for everything, a flavor of Vista, meeting the staff, seeing where the programs are run, and seeing the town that supports everyone. The atmosphere is contagious."

The WALK for Vista passing by Long Island Sound, with Tuxis Island in the background

Thank you so much Beth and Callista for your kind words and insight. The WALK is made possible by everyone who shows up, and we can't thank you all enough.

Until next time...