As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” The World Partnership Walk (WPW) is an annual event held in 10 cities nationwide to help alleviate global poverty. Since its beginning 30 years ago the WPW has raised over $82 million for international projects to aid people globally, making this event the largest event of it’s kind!
100% of the donations go directly to The Aga Khan Foundation of Canada, better known as the AKFC. Each donation is put towards international development projects, aiding poverty within four categories known as Health, Education, Developing Civil Society and Rural Development. Previous projects derived under the AKFC through WPW include revitalizing a rural economy, ensuring clean water and sanitation, strengthening community-based organizations and educating new generations of girls and women.
This event raised $55 000 in donations and got 1000 people to walk within the first year. As it’s 30th annual walk is approaching this Sunday June 8th, 2014 the goal is to surpass the $7 million raised nationwide in 2013, Calgary being able to raise $1.3 million.
The event takes place at Prince’s Island Park, and the walk is a maximum of 5 km. Not only is the pathway filled with beautiful scenery that embraces our beautiful city, it is also filled with laughter, light and smiles!
As an individual who has actively participated in this event for the past 7 years, it truly is a fulfilling experience that comes with many memories and is surrounded by positive energy. From running the 5 km, to participating in one of the localized dances, to raising money as an ambassador, all the way to volunteering in the event, the outcome of participating in this event is thrilling and life changing.
The Agenda for The World Partnership Walk this Sunday looks like this:
8:30 am- Registration and breakfast for volunteers in the VIP tent
9:30 am- VIP Breakfast for specially invited guests and politicians, Global Village tent opens for VIP viewing
10:40 am- Formal stage show begins
11:30am- Ribbon cutting and launch* of the 30th Annual WPW
1:00- Award ceremonies
2:00- Entertainment on stage
3:00- Closing remarks.
* The launch of the WPW is kicked off with some local dances, zumba and yoga!
The Global Village tent is a very important component to the entire event. It connects all the donations and efforts that are made by the WPW. It is an interactive place to learn about the impact of Canadian support and the work being done within Asia and Africa, as well as the current/past projects, basically where 100% of the money raised goes. It includes hands on activities, a photo-op and a live Twitter Feed!
Come rain or sun, this walk will be happening! Why not get involved and help change the world by alleviating global poverty?
Ways to get involved:
- Register and become a Walk Ambassador
- Create/Join a team
- Make a donation or sponsor an Ambassador
- Become a walk volunteer in your city!
Check out these links to help you embark your journey:
World Partnership Walk-Calgary