By: Larry Huff, Samaritan Inns President
Pictured: Larry Huff (left) and Samaritan Inns Board Member Paul Gallagher

For me, one of the highlights of the fall is the Help the Homeless Walkathon – this year’s walk was no exception. It is probably the most “community-inspired” activity I know. You have people from almost every cultural, racial, and socio-economic background – doing it together! I even saw several homeless people either walking or cheering from the sidelines along the way. People were simply having a good time.

Our group carried the Samaritan Inns banner from start to finish – as we took turns holding the banner, it proved to be a great opportunity to chat among co-workers and get to know one another better, outside the work environment – I think we drew closer as a team through the experience. On the stretch along Independence Avenue, I happened to notice one of our program graduates (who I hadn’t seen for over a year) taking a break on a bench. I learned that she suffers from Diabetes and just had surgery on her foot – but was still able to come out and walk!

We’re thrilled with the support shown by Samaritan Inns’ staff, residents and volunteers, as well as the community support for all beneficiary organizations. Fannie Mae reported that there were over 17,000 walkers!

If you couldn’t make it to the walk this time around, we hope to see you next fall!