Step Up for SA Guide-Dogs in their Annual Walkathon

South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind will hold its annual fundraising event, The Step Up for Guide-Dogs Walkathon, from Tuesday May 3 to Tuesday May 10.

Every year the association challenges participants to take 100 000 steps over the eight days while raising funds for the non-profit organisation through the online crowd-funding platform, GivenGain. Entries are now open on www.guidedog.org.za and all are invited to join.

“The aim of the this year’s walkathon is to raise R350 000 for the association. All funds go towards the training of our assistance dogs,” said regional marketing manager, Jackie Quail, “and don’t forget, you don’t have to rack up all 100 000 steps on your own. Join as a team and divide the steps amongst you to lighten the load.”

Walkathon participants can record their steps using their phone, smart watch or pedometer and upload their progress to their fundraising profile on the GivenGain Website. They are then encouraged to ask friends, family and colleagues to donate towards their walk to raise money.

Every participant that raises R750 or more for the association will receive a pair of S A Guide-Dogs Socks. Participants also stand a chance to win prizes.

“We are giving our walkers extra chances to win prizes this year in our Walkathon Scavenger Hunts. Throughout the week we will be announcing different items and places to find when you are out and about on your walk. Snap a photo and tag us in and you could win.” said Ms Quail.

Ms Quail said the walkathon was a fun activity for the entire family.

“Get your dogs, friends, family and colleagues involved and help raise much needed funds for the association.”

The South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind breeds and trains guide dogs for people who are visually impaired, service dogs for people who are physically disabled and autism support dogs for children who are on the low Autism spectrum. They receive no government funding and relies on donations and fundraising activities to keep the doors the open.

Visit www.guidedog.org.za or email JackieQ@guidedog.org.za for more information.