On June 5, 2016, Great Strides came to Foley Square in Lower Manhattan. Despite rainy skies, about 70 World Mission Society Church of God volunteers gathered to support the event. Their energy and smiles helped the fundraiser become a true success.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that causes lung infections and breathing difficulties. More than 33,000 Americans live with this life-threatening condition. Since 1955, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has worked toward finding a lifelong cure. Each year, their largest fundraiser, Great Strides, brings together more than 125,000 people across 500 locations.
Working Together for a Cure
Volunteers arrived early to an empty park and quickly began working with the organizers. They unloaded furniture, set up tents, and arranged tables. With signs, streamers, and other decorations, they turned Foley Square into a welcoming space for hundreds of guests.
CF Foundation Development Manager Shara Swift commented, “Everyone had a smile on their face and was willing to help with every task, no matter how small or large.”
Other volunteer groups canceled due to the weather, but Church of God members stayed the course. They managed several stations and filled in wherever help was needed. Volunteers handed out colorful beaded necklaces, shared information about cystic fibrosis, and inspired participants with cheers. Even as rain began to fall, their joy and encouragement lifted spirits.
Lifting Spirits Despite the Rain
When the 5K walk began, the drizzle turned into heavy rain. Still, volunteers held posters, shook pompoms, and kept cheering until every participant crossed the finish line. Their unwavering support gave strength to walkers determined to keep going.
Nearly 700 participants and more than a dozen corporate sponsors joined the event. Together, they raised over $665,000 for cystic fibrosis research.
“Though there were clouds in the sky, the Church of God volunteers brought the sunshine,” said Martine Denis, CF Foundation Executive Director.
For the volunteers, the day was about more than service. It was about sharing love, hope, and encouragement, even through the rain.
3 Responses
I can’t forget this event. This event was so much fun. Even though it was raining so much they never lost the excitement. Even the runners got more excited when it started raining. Had a great time with the Church of God!
Wow!! I’m so Happy to be a Part of The Church of God!! Through this great Volunteer event it goes to show Rain or Shine, we will be there to support our Community. Truly by following the Examples of Our Heavenly Mother were we able to BE UNITED & FILLED WITH SO MUCH EXCITEMENT!! IT WAS SUCH A BLAST!
Wow! Although I myself was unable to participate from the pictures and the article I can feel the passion and endurance of the volunteers to be the salt and the light of the world. Even when others chose not to show God opened the way for the members of the AMAZING Church of God to step up and share Mother’s love I’m all their given task. Awesome work! So proud to a member of such an outstanding and perfect church 🙂