Walk a Mile in my Shoes Sets Attendance Record

It was another record-setting year for the Muncie Mission’s Annual Walk a Mile in My Shoes event. This year’s event on Feb. 11 drew a record 2,500 walkers and raised $68,000, according to Ray Raines, Mission Director.

“Muncie Mission would like to express its gratitude to all of the volunteers, companies, churches, and individuals who participated in the 8^th annual Walk a Mile in my Shoes.  We were blessed with great weather for those that layered their clothing and had warm shoes; but also cold enough to remind walkers that the homeless and desperate don’t have a choice….layering of clothing is probably not an option and more than likely they don’t own warm shoes,”  said Raines.

“Building Hope” was the theme for this year’s walk.  Building hope for a better tomorrow….a tomorrow that offers opportunity for a different lifestyle, a second chance…. a dawning of a new day. 

“As we face tough economic times, now more than ever it is important to do what we can to help those in need,” Raines said.  “Funds raised from the walk will support our continued efforts to provide food, shelter and long-term recovery for the homeless.  Food bags, clothing and other items for desperate families in need and daily lunches for our guests from the streets.”   

Two traveling team awards, called the “Golden Sneaker” awards, were designed to encourage friendly team competition, bring people together for a common cause and encourage team donations.  The “Top Attendance Team” award was secured by Cowan Schools, 130 walkers in attendance, the largest team ever.  The “Top Fundraising Team” award went to Cowan Schools as well, raising $2,735.  

A certificate of accomplishment is presented to all teams that raise $1,000 or more, this year there were (14).  They were: Cadiz Christian Church, Cowan Schools, Fairview United Methodist Church, Destiny Christian Center, DUC’s, Eaton Church of God, Muncie Firefighters, Quick Stepping Quakers, Redkey Faith Ministries, Riverside United Methodist Church, Springport Christian Church, The Gathering Church, Townsend Corporation and Trinity Baptist Church, Hazelwood Christian Church.

Additionally, we would like to recognize our partnerships with Muncie Community Schools, Muncie Firefighters, Muncie City Police, Muncie Street Department and the City of Muncie.  Without their cooperation and involvement this event could never reach this magnitude.   

“Thank you all for supporting our efforts.  Our services that we provide are critical….critical to the point of saving lives,” said Raines.