Participants in this hike-a-thon gather pledges of money
from sponsors and then hike to fulfill their pledges. They
can choose when to hike (June 7 or 8) and where (Mt. Monadnock
in Jaffrey, NH, or Blue Hills Reserve in Milton, MA). Dogs
are welcome at Blue Hills. Each hike covers approximately
three miles of trails over moderate terrain. Alternate routes
are available for those who don’t wish to climb to the
top of a mountain.
All the money raised by those hiking on behalf of HFHGL will
go toward building affordable homes for low-income families—like
the home just under construction in Westford, MA (see accompanying
story). It is because of many people’s participation
in events such as the Hike that Habitat homes are possible.
Individual hikers and teams can earn prizes—different
style of T-shirts—based on the amount of money they
raise. Form a team of up to 10 people, raise $250, and receive
special HFHGL shirts—or $500 and have your team name
printed on the back of the Ts!
This experience rewards its participants not only through
prizes, but also with feelings of accomplishment and devotion
to a greater cause. Brendan, a student at Reading Memorial
High School who organized friends and family to hike in 2007,
says, “The hike was definitely a day well spent with
friends for a good cause. I worked at the Governors Drive
homes and saw what the money we raised actually does. It felt
good knowing my friends and I were doing something that actually
helped families in our community.” He plans to hike
again this year—we hope he’ll be one of many.
Want to help, but don’t want to hike? There are other
ways to participate: pledge to someone who is hiking, partner
with someone who will hike on your behalf, or volunteer to
help with hiker registration on June 7 or 8. Whatever way
you can contribute will be appreciated.
For more information, or to request registration/sponsorship
forms, Hike brochures, and posters, e-mail hike@lowellhabitat.org.
Information is also available at www.takeahikeforhumanity.org.