Chattanoogans are being asked to step out in an effort to help local medical missions in Honduras through a walk and “fun fest” Saturday, Aug. 27 in the parking lot of Pointe Corporate Center off East Brainerd Road.
“The four walks combined have become almost a necessity now to meet the financial needs of Predisan,” organizer Ruby Jean Smith said of similar events held that spawned from the local one, aimed at helping the Christian-based nonprofit provide medical services in one of the world’s poorest countries. “If not for Predisan those people would not have medical services anywhere near them.”
Several area businesses like Scenic City Mini Golf are stepping up to help support the medical missions of nonprofit Predisan in Honduras. The business, owned by seven members of East Brainerd Church of Christ, the first local church to send a group to Honduras in the name of Predisan, donated 10 percent of a weekend’s proceeds to the cause. It will hold a similar fundraiser at the end of September for 1040 Ministries, which aims to stop human trafficking.Several local companies have offered to match different levels of fundraising, for a possible $25,000 combined if that much can be raised through the event’s walker fees and live and silent auctions as well as volunteers’ preliminary fundraising efforts. Last year’s Chattanooga event raised $65,000, a drop in the bucket compared to the overall $300,000-plus from the similar events held in Atlanta, Dallas and Oklahoma City.
Registration for the untimed walk costs $10 per person or $25 per family and begins at 8:30 a.m. Every registered walker will receive a free on-site breakfast from Chick-fil-A. A $5 wristband fee per child will grant them access to activities like “go fish” and ring toss, although a dunk tank featuring area several notable citizens will cost extra. Live entertainment will also be ongoing throughout the afternoon.
A silent auction will feature gift baskets with themes from “car wash” to “pamper yourself.” A retired auctioneer will lead a live auction of items like a Florida vacation, Titans tickets and antiques.