Groundworks Collaborative will hold its fifth annual Hike for the Homeless fundraiser on Saturday, September 12 (rain date, September 13th), on Mount Wantastiquet in Hinsdale, NH. There will be two start times, 10am and 12:30pm, each beginning at the Mountain Road trailhead in Hinsdale (an immediate left after the second bridge on Route 119 when coming from downtown Brattleboro). Registration begins at 9:30 for the 10am start, and at Noon for the 12:30pm start. Whether hiking to the summit or walking the River Trail at its base, participants can anticipate a beautiful late-summer hike and outstanding views of the town of Brattleboro. Hikers may raise funds individually (a minimum of $50 is suggested) or as a team (suggested minimum $250). All proceeds from the Hike benefit Groundworks Collaborative’s work with families and individuals experiencing homelessness in Brattleboro and surrounding communities.
“We’re looking forward to this year’s Hike as a fundraiser for Groundworks,” said Executive Director Joshua Davis, “as our housing and shelter programs have expanded along with the merger of Morningside and the Drop In Center. Whereas in the past the Hike for the Homeless has raised funds to support Morningside’s programs, it can now help us offset costs for additional case management and emergency shelter programs previously run through the Drop In Center.”
According to Libby Bennett, Groundworks’ Development Director, “Hike for the Homeless has traditionally been held in early October, and the merger has allowed us to shift our fundraising schedules slightly to make space for all of our fundraising activities throughout the year.” Bennett added that the organization is greatly appreciative of all the generosity of supporters in the community. With the help of hikers (roughly 160 participants), sponsors, volunteers and contributors – last year’s Hike for the Homeless raised $25,000 in support of the Shelter.
Those who wish to participate in this year’s Hike for the Homeless by fundraising, hiking, or contributing to a participant, should visit GroundworksVT.org for links to registration and fundraising information. Refreshments will be available and great prizes (including a 3-month membership at the Outer Limits Health Club; Dinner-For-Two at the Chesterfield Inn; and gift certificates to Sam’s Outdoor Outfitters and Burrows Specialized Sports, among others) will be awarded to top fundraising hikers. Questions may be directed to Libby Bennett at lbennett@GroundworksVT.org, or 802-257-0066 x101.
