BAPS Annual Community Walkathon

Aastha Joshi began her Saturday bright and early, eager to contribute to the betterment of her community. For the last 6 weeks, Aastha has dedicated her weekends to raising funds to support the local BAPS Charities Walkathon. Even at the age of 10, she has raised over a thousand dollars!
The annual BAPS Charities Walkathon, held on Saturday, June 20th 2015 at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, helped raise support for the American Cancer Society (ACS), Special Olympics World Games- Los Angeles, and the Chino Valley Independent Fire District.

This year, over 900 individuals of all ages joined together to walk in support of the beneficiaries. Prior to the walk, over 50 participants raced through in a 5K Run to support the causes. The walk commenced with a traditional prayer for world peace and an opening speech by Cynthia Moran, Mayor of Chino Hills, who stated “Year after year, BAPS Charities continues to be dedicated to our community.” Chino Hills Councilmembers Art Bennett and Ray Marquez were also present in support of the walk.

San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman presented BAPS Charities with a proclamation on behalf of the County of San Bernardino in appreciation for BAPS Charities contribution to the local community.

For over 100 years, the American Cancer Society (ACS) has worked relentlessly to save lives and create a world with less cancer. Together with millions of supporters worldwide, ACS helps people stay well and get well, find cures, and fight back against cancer. ACS Representative Dawn O’Neil noted, “I want to thank BAPS Charities on behalf of the American Cancer Society. Organizations such as these make it possible for research and care for those that have been affected by cancer. ”

Representative Dave Seltzer, from the Chino Hills Host Committee for the Special Olympics, acknowledged his appreciation to BAPS Charities for their support for this year’s Special Olympics to be held in Southern California.
Battalion Chief Collins, representative from the Chino Valley Independent Fire District, was present to thank BAPS Charities for their on-going support over the years.

Upon completing the walk, Aastha proudly stated “I feel happy that I’ve done my part to help fight cancer.” Aastha cannot wait to participate again in the future, raise even more funds, and continue to spread awareness about issues pertinent to bettering our society.

BAPS Charities aims to selflessly serve society through a variety of social projects and inspire tens of thousands of others to do the same. In addition to the 54 such annual walkathons hosted across North America this year, BAPS Charities hosts various programs to support and raise awareness for healthy living, environmental sustainability and educational initiatives around the world. BAPS Charities strives to sincerely serve the community by improving the quality of lives of individuals and their families.