With an abundance of caution in dealing with the risks posed by the coronavirus, Southeaster Guide Dogs' remaining Walkathon fundraising events scheduled for March, April and May will not take place in their respective locations. To protect the people and pets who would have participated in these large group events, the organization has switched to a Virtual Walkathon model it is calling “location changes.” Walkathon is Southeastern Guide Dogs’ largest fundraiser of the year and is relied upon to bring in more than one million dollars annually to fund the organization’s mission. The organization accepts no government funding and depends 100% on private donations and grants to provide its life-changing guide and service dogs to the people who need them—at no charge. Due to unforeseen economic challenges tied to the coronavirus pandemic, the monies raised by thousands of individual Walkathon team members is critical this year, more than ever. That is why the remaining Walkathons are not being cancelled entirely. Instead, participants are encouraged to make a location change and go virtual.

“At 10 am on the day of the Walkathon for which you are registered, join in the virtual experience,” says Walkathon Director Jennifer Bryant. “Whether you are walking on a treadmill, walking in your neighborhood, or even in your living room, put on your walking shoes, leash up your dog and walk your paws for the cause.” Walkathon’s virtual participants are encouraged to take a photo or video, tag Southeastern Guide Dogs on social media, and share, so everyone can join in the fun. The raffle drawing and fundraising incentive items for the different levels of donations will still be provided as planned. “So, keep fundraising, keep sharing your page on social media, and keep your walking shoes handy,” Bryant says. “While we can’t all walk together, with your help, our graduates will never walk alone.”

More information on Walkathon can be found here.