Walk (or roll) your way to support YWCA this fall

Grab your tennis shoes – from riverside walks to cross-city cycling, there are multiple ways to get outdoors and move to support YWCA Dayton this fall:Aug. 20 - Sept. 25 (virtual): African American Wellness Walk www.runsignup.com/2021aawwOct. 10: Tour de Gem www.ms-stride.org/tourdegemNov. 28: Turkey Trot https://ohioruns.com/daytonturkeytrot“We love charity beneficiary events like these because they provide not only financial support for YW’s critical 24/7 services, but they allow us to engage directly with community and thank our partners in a very tangible way,” explained Marshall Weil, director of development and corporate giving.First up is the 21st annual African American Wellness Walk, sponsored by Premier Health. The walk will take place virtually again this year, beginning on Aug. 20 and culminating with a post-event virtual experience on Sept. 25. This year’s theme is “Walk in My Shoes.” As part of the AAWW, Premier is raising money to benefit several different organizations, including YWCA Dayton, that are working to positively impact the lives of American Americans in the greater Dayton community by combating social determinants of health and social injustice.If 50 or more people sign up and join Team YWCA of Dayton, YW receives a portion of proceeds from the event. Plus: Premier Health is giving an extra $1,000 to the organization that has the highest number of participants signed up. Winners will be announced at the live finale event Sept. 11. Sign up now at: www.runsignup.com/2021aaww.The following month, for the third year, YWCA Dayton will have a team cycling for a cause in the Tour de Gem at RiverScape MetroPark. The Tour de Gem: The Wright Brothers 2021 Cycling Classic is a fundraising cycling event for local nonprofits to raise money and bring awareness to their important missions. It is described by organizers as a fun, family-friendly way for cyclists of all ages and abilities to have a positive impact in their community and explore the many Gems Dayton has to offer.In its three years, this event has already raised over $170,000 for 60+ nonprofits, including YWCA Dayton. The virtual ride begins Sept. 24 and ends at a live ride on Oct. 10. Sign up to join Team YWCA at: www.ms-stride.org/tourdegem. Donations also gratefully accepted.Last, get in the holiday spirit by walking or running with YWCA Dayton at the Dayton Turkey Trot on Nov. 28 at Welcome Stadium. This Thanksgiving tradition features a half marathon, 10K and 5K option, plus a kids’ fun run. Walk/run the distance on your own, or join us live in person with your family and friends.Visit https://ohioruns.com/daytonturkeytrot to register now – early bird rates available through Aug. 25. As a charity beneficiary, YWCA Dayton receives $2 for every participant from the Dayton area, plus any donations made during registration. Volunteer opportunities will also be available; contact volunteers@ywcadayton.org for more information.“We continue to be humbled by the incredible support our Dayton community shares with us,” Weil said. “Especially moving through these difficult pandemic times, every single effort is noted, felt, and appreciated. We are here to serve the community, but we couldn’t do it without their support. Thank you!”