As anyone who has taken part in this event could probably guess, volunteer Laura Pallone is referencing Lazarus House's annual Hike for Hope.  This year's event on Sunday, October 14, 2012, will mark Laura's third time gracing Lazarus House with her positive attitude and organizational skills in her volunteer role as activity coordinator.  "I have known about Lazarus House for as long as I can remember . . . their presence in the community has always been prominent," the North Andover native explained.  "I have always loved walking in the Hike, it's a fun way to make a difference."

Now in its 13th year, the Hike for Hope brings together over a thousand people to walk five miles through Andover, starting and ending at Merrimack College.  United in the goal of raising money for the Capernaum Place transitional housing facility, a host of participants continue to make this event a successful one year after year.  Without the support of the Hike, Capernaum Place would not be able to continue serving its purpose as a place where residents learn the life skills they need to support themselves independently.

Aside from the walk itself, the Hike for Hope also offers an array of activities and entertainment throughout the day at Merrimack College . . . and that's where Laura comes in.  From face painting, to three-wheeler rides, to musical performances, there's something for everyone at the Hike.  Laura coordinates all aspects of the fall festival portion of the event and strives every year to introduce something new to the mix.

"Laura is amazing," Event Coordinator, Bridget Sheehy said.  "In addition to working full time at the Eagle Tribune, she does all the graphic design for the Hike and coordinates the entertainment for the day. Now she and boyfriend, Ryan Perreault, have taken on the role of Co-chairing the event with our long-term Chairpersons, Betty and Roger Desjardins. Laura has a love of event planning and a passion for Lazarus House."

As fabulous a job as Laura does, she simply cannot do it alone.  "Last year a couple of women helped [with activity preparation] beforehand and on the day of the Hike a lot of high school students came to help set up," she explained.  With that many walkers gathering in one place, it takes an army of volunteers to make the event go off without a hitch.  "Each year we need new members to join our committee with new ideas to keep this event growing," Sheehy stated.  "Right now we really need volunteers working on recruitment to help promote the walk and educate our supporters on the importance of fundraising." 

Whether you want to assist on the day of the Hike, serve on a committee, or both, there is undoubtedly a spot for you on the Hike for Hope team.  Like many others, Laura started taking part in the Hike years ago, and now she's hooked. 

If you would like to join a committee to help plan and organize one of our three major Lazarus House events please contact Bridget Sheehy, Event Manager at events@lazarushouse.org or call (978) 269-5206. We are always looking for new members to join our existing events committees to make the year 2012 a success!