The Arc of Chester County’s biggest fundraiser has gone virtual, a solution to canceling the physical event amidst the COVID-19 crisis. The Bubble Walk, Run & Fun event on May 17 benefits services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The decision to change the event format was made following the Gov. Tom Wolf’s stay-at-home mandate and to keep everyone safe. The Arc serves many individuals considered at-risk and susceptible to the virus.

“Our first priority is to keep our participants, families, staff, volunteers, and community partners safe,” said Jeanne Meikrantz, Executive Director of The Arc of Chester County. “Second, we want to make sure no one is left behind during this pandemic. Now more than ever, families, children, and adults with disabilities are relying on our supports and services. The virtual walk and run is a fun way to rally together as a community and secure much-needed funding for those we support all year long and through this pandemic.”

Last year, the event raised $100,000 for much-needed services and supports and welcomed nearly 350 runners and walkers to West Goshen Community Park in West Chester. Adults and kids alike walked through bubble stations along a one-mile course or ran a 5K through adjacent neighborhoods. Many event-goers walked as a team to champion inclusivity and their loved ones with disabilities.

This year’s decision to go virtual gives runners and walkers the freedom to support The Arc’s services and fundraising needs from the safety of their own neighborhood. The goal is for hundreds of walkers and runners to virtually set out together at 9 AM on Sunday, May 17 to complete a mile or 5K on a course of their choosing.

“This is an opportunity to feel empowered in these unprecedented times. We’ll be out and about in a mass showing of community spirit that will be happening simultaneously in Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties,” said Stephen D. Potts, The Arc’s Board President.

A social media campaign will post achievements throughout the day with hashtags #ArcRunningStrong and #ArcCCWalkingStrong.

Online individual registration is $25 for the one-mile event and $35 for the 5K. Discounted rates apply for group team registration. Each registrant will receive an Arc race package, including a customized drawstring bag, t-shirt, and bubbles, to be distributed after the event when conditions are safe.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support of our community,” said Meikrantz. “To date, Arc supporters have lifted us up and humbled us with their well wishes and acts of kindness. We’re so grateful for their support and rely on this event for much-needed funding. It’s that generosity and human spirit we’ve counted on for almost 70 years that will help us stay strong together during this unprecedented time.”

Click here for more information on The Arc of Chester County or to register for The Arc’s Virtual Bubble Walk, Run & Fun event.

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