Challenge Yourself for a Change
by Laura Feragen
For many people, Wissahickon Valley Park is a place they visit time after time. Joann Hyle was not one of those people; she rarely visited the park. But motivated by the need for an alternative to her daily gym routine, Joann signed up for the All Trails Challenge (ATC).
During this time of thanksgiving, we are grateful for the many gifts Wissahickon Valley Park has to offer everyone, and to people like Joann who are supporting FOW’s year-round work to preserve the beauty and health of this important resource by participating in the ATC.
Joann has found that walking outside is a nice change of pace, and has made multiple trips to Houston Meadow because it’s sunnier and more open than the wooded trails. Joann has even invited several friends to walk with her, which has been a great side benefit. Thanks to the ATC, Joann has now become a Wissahickon regular.
The Challenge ends on November 28 – #Giving Tuesday – so there’s still time to show your love for the park. Sponsoring an ATC Challenger or team is a great way to give back. Or, consider joining yourself – whether you track five or 50 miles, every little bit helps.
All 2017 ATC participants who reach the $50 fundraising level are invited to a special party on November 30 at the historic Philadelphia Canoe Club. We’ll be celebrating fitness and fundraising achievements as we share the final mileage and fundraising standings, while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. We’ll also announce the winners of our top prizes — a 5-day/4-night stay at an all-inclusive 4 star resort in the Caribbean (including airfare), a weekend getaway at a luxury Pennsylvania resort, a night on the town in Philadelphia, and more.
For more information on the ATC, contact Lorraine Awuku at awuku@fow.org.