For 35 years, Align Life Ministries has been holding an annual Walk Run for Life fundraiser. This year, the organization formerly known as Susquehanna Valley Pregnancy Services will hold an expanded event called Move for Life: Walk Run Plus.

An in-person event will be held on Saturday, May 8, at The Junction Center, 1875 Junction Road, Manheim. The fundraiser also features a virtual option for participation.

"The in-person event will offer a 5K run and 1-mile walk simultaneously, starting at 9 a.m.," said Heather Muncy, events director for Align Life Ministries. "If an individual or team prefers to participate virtually, they can choose their own safe, healthy, fun activity anytime between now and May 8."

For example, participants may choose to walk, run or even jump rope. The virtual component began last year, Muncy said, when the organization had to shift away from an in-person fundraiser due to the pandemic.

"Participants decided to jump rope, dunk basketballs, take family hikes, bicycle rides, Frisbee, golf, run, walk ... the possibilities were endless," she recalled. "We then realized the opportunity to expand our event in general to include a virtual - or 'plus' - option." Participants can decide the length and time of their activity, she explained, and then submit a photo or short video to show what they did. They can also plan to attend the in-person event.

"Those who are participating virtually can join us on May 8 for a grand celebration and pick up their prizes at the same time," Muncy stated. The in-person event will feature a family-friendly walk and chip-timed 5K run as well as free Kids' Zones with live entertainment, interactive inflatables, face painting, snow cones and more.

Move for Life is an important event for the organization, Muncy noted, adding that it not only helps further the mission of promoting the sacredness of life, but it also helps raise funds to serve more people in need. "It is our biggest fundraising event, providing 15% of our annual budgeted income," she stated.

She encourages anyone to participate in the Move for Life, whether virtually or in person. "If you're looking for ways to put your life-affirming beliefs into action and truly help your local community, please join us," she remarked. "The funds you raise - whether it's $50 or $5,000 - all are used to meet the immediate needs of the pregnant, parenting and post-abortive clients we serve. Your efforts help point people to Jesus. Plus, you get to enjoy a big celebration party with others who share your values in honoring God's gift of life."

To learn more about Move for Life: Walk Run Plus or to register, readers may visit http://www.AlignLifeMinistries.org, contact hmuncy@alignlifeministries.org or call 717-274-5128, ext. 315.