A truly special event happens in October. It’s the CHOC “Walk in the Park” at Disneyland Resort. The event is the biggest annual fundraising effort for CHOC Children’s, devoted to meeting the medical needs of children throughout Southern California and beyond.
Walt Disney himself was one of the original proponents of CHOC Children’s (Hospital) and this year marks the 13th straight year that “CHOC Walk” has taken place at the Disneyland Resort.
CHOC “Walk in the Park,” presented by Disneyland Resort, is the largest and most unique single pediatric walk event in the nation. Among the event’s estimated 15,000 walkers are participants from across the U.S. and around the world, including walkers from Canada, Mexico, Australia and South Korea.
Last year’s event raised $2.1 million, and since its inception 24 years ago in 1990, the Walk has raised more than $22 million.
You can make a difference in a child's life whether you sign-up to be a "CHOC Walker" or proud supporter. If you are like me and live far from Disneyland Resort you can still help by making a donation. Follow the links at the end of this post.
“CHOC Walkers” come together to celebrate the lives of children saved by CHOC Children’s, and to honor the memory of those children who bravely lost their battle against serious disease or illness. Nearly 800 teams are expected, and include current and former patients and families, as well as doctors, nurses and other medical professionals.
As the twilight skies of early morning give way to daybreak on Sunday, one of the most famous thoroughfares in the world will become the starting point for an impressive procession of joy, thanks, remembrance, and giving. Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, will be filled with thousands of people coming together in support of Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC Children’s) and the health and well-being of children near and far.
The walk covers three miles through Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park where “CHOC Walkers” get a special peek at the magic of the Disneyland Resort before the parks open to the general public. At the end of the 5k walk, the event continues in the resort’s Downtown Disney District where event sponsors, hospital support groups, shops, and restaurants have special offers for Walk participants.
“It’s spectacular to see thousands of people line Main Street, U.S.A. on an early Sunday morning to take steps – literally – in support of CHOC Children’s mission and vision,” said Kimberly Chavalas Cripe, president and CEO, CHOC Children’s. “Participants from diverse backgrounds, including individuals, school teams and corporations, are joined together by a common bond. It’s a unique experience – thanks so much to our dear friends at the Disneyland Resort, and the tremendous show of support of our sponsors is a tribute to our community.
“The Disneyland Resort has been a proud supporter of Children’s Hospital Orange County for the past 50 years,” said Michael Colglazier, president of the Disneyland Resort. “CHOC ‘Walk in the Park’ is a very special event for our Cast Members.
