Quad-City Times Bix 7 Announces "Walk This Way for United Way"
Brady Street Challenge to include fundraiser

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Posted Thursday, 2 July, 2009

DAVENPORT, Iowa - (June 28, 2009) - The Quad-City Times Bix Brady Street Challenge wants to put the "fun" in fundraising and kick off the Bix weekend at the same time. The event, dubbed "Walk This Way for United Way" will give participants a chance to be part of the excitement of the Brady Street Challenge on Thursday night, July 23rd, without having to qualify - or even run up the hill. Instead, they will take part in a group walk up the hill and celebrate the start of the Bix weekend with a party at the starting line, all while helping United Way of the Quad Cities Area.

"We're excited about the opportunity to partner with United Way on this new event," said Ed Froehlich, Bix7 race director. "The Bix 7 is the biggest event of the year and we're always looking for ways to make it even better. There are thousands of people that love being part of the Bix, whether they are participants, volunteers, or spectators. This event will give them all a chance to do something to kick off their weekend that will give back to the community in a big way."

Participants in the event will pay $20, get a special commemorative t-shirt and be invited to participate in the group walk up Brady Street following the Brady Street Challenge. They will also attend a private party at the starting line of the Challenge that will include a live band and free refreshments. Quad-City Times photographers will take a group shot of everyone in their t-shirts on the hill to be published in the newspaper and in United Way materials. In addition, United Way will videotape the walk to be used as part of local public service announcements. "Walk this Way for United Way" is designed to be a twist on the traditional fundraising walk in that it's only a quarter mile long - just straight uphill. And for those wanting to participate but not inclined to walk the hill, there will be an option to say "No Way" and just enjoy the party.

Proceeds will benefit funded programs at United Way's 48 partner agencies. These 94 programs provide a broad base of support that meets the immediate needs of our community. The money will be distributed through United Way's volunteer-driven process which ensures that donations are used in the most efficient manner possible and will achieve long-term measurable results.

"As the 2009 United Way campaign chair, I am very aware of the good work that United Way is doing in the Quad Cities," said Julie Bechtel, Quad-City Times publisher. "This seemed like a great way to marry the biggest event in our area with an opportunity to really help the community at a time it's truly needed. This has been a tough period for many in the Quad Cities. There are more people than ever in need of assistance of one form or another. Through this event we can support United Way in building the strength of the community - and have fun at the same time."

To register for "Walk this Way for United Way" visit www.qctimes.com/go/walk or the Quad-City Times building during regular business hours.

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