Naperville CROP walk a huge success

I am writing to express appreciation for all who helped to make the 28th annual Naperville Area CROP (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty) Walk another huge success. More than 600 walkers assembled on Oct. 17 for a walk through the Hobson Woods subdivision and raised more than $60,000.

Most walked the 5K, which is the distance many in the world walk daily to secure water for their families. They walked in solidarity with them and to raise money and awareness for them. Seventy five percent of the money raised goes to ease hunger, assist with disaster relief and support development for the neediest around the world.

The other 25 percent is shared with Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry and the Northern Illinois Food Bank, which are working hard to address the growing hunger crisis in our area.

Twenty churches and organizations participated in this interfaith event. Special thanks is extended to Grace United Methodist Church for hosting the Walk and to Alleluia Lutheran (more than 200 walkers) and Our Savior's Lutheran (165 walkers) for having the most walkers.

We are also very grateful for our 85 walkers who raised $200 or more. We especially want to acknowledge our pacesetter walkers: Duane and Carol Mevis of Wesley United Methodist, Ruth and Chuck Dow of River Glen Presbyterian, Pastor Mark Juliot and family of Alleluia Lutheran, Chuck, Cathy and Abbie Schaefer of Alleluia Lutheran and Rosie Eiler of Wesley United Methodist, who raised over $1,000 each.

The coordinating team thanks all of our walkers, sponsors and donors who made this such a successful event. The team is already planning for next year's walk on Oct. 16, 2011. See www.napervillecropwalk.org.

Rev. Lynn Pries

Naperville team coordinator