Saturday, May 31 around 115 people turned out for the Ed Poling Memorial HARC Hike for Hunger and Hope, undeterred by reports of muddy ground or possible rain. Spirits were high as participants enjoyed a 4K, 10K or half marathon hike on the beautiful C&O Canal Towpath and the trails of Shepherd’s Spring Camp and Retreat Center followed by a delicious meal prepared by the 19th Hole/Harambee54, music, fellowship, prizes, and an on-screen tribute to Hike founder Ed Poling. We were especially honored by the presence of Ed’s sister, Beckie.
Between this event and the May 17 Challenge Hike, the event raised more than $80,000 for Micah’s Backpack, the Refugee Welcome Network and other programs of HARC! This was in great part thanks to many participants seeking donations for their hike paired with a 2-1 fundraising match from the God’s Grace Fund. The top fundraising individuals for this event were Christine Finke and Becky Fritts (Challenge Hike) and Mary & John Means (Canal Hike). Top fundraising teams were Hebron Mennonite for Ed Poling (Canal Hike) and Otterbein UMC (Challenge Hike).
We are incredibly grateful for everyone who made this event possible and successful, with special thanks to our amazing HARC Hike Team: Kelly Conrad, Beth Johnston, Ed Maloy, Deacon Sue Wert, Bill Pike, Butch Eigenbrode, Ted & Elizabeth Howe, and Kathy Powderly. We also could not do this without incredible sponsors, including God’s Grace Fund (matching donor and lunch sponsor), Columbia Gas/NiSource, First Christian Church, and the Poole Law Group (see all sponsors listed here) or without our generous church and nonprofit vans & drivers – Girls Inc., Christ’s Reformed Church, St. John’s Episcopal Church, and Valley Grace Brethren Church.
Check out select pictures from the May 31 hike below, with many more posted on our Facebook page!
