Easterseals Southern California (ESSC), an organization dedicated to assisting over 15,000 individuals with disabilities across So Cal, is gearing up for its 23rd Annual Strides for Disability Walk at Marina Green Park on Saturday, Oct. 21.
All proceeds from the event directly support ESSC programs, including critical services like autism therapy, adult day services, child development programs, living options, and employment services. Last year, the event exceeded its $100,000 fundraising goal, and this year, the aim is even higher at $130,000.
Registration fees for the walk are $40 for adults, $10 for children ages 6-12, and free for kids aged 5 and under (though they must still be registered). On-site registration, along with bib & t-shirt pickup, begins at 7 a.m., followed by the program and mission moments at 8:30 a.m. The 5k run starts promptly at 9:15 a.m., and the 3k Family Fun Walk commences at 9:30 a.m. Individuals can complete their registration online at https://secure.qgiv.com/event/esscp2p to save some time.
Participants who register for the event will receive a commemorative t-shirt, a drawstring bag, a finishing medal, and a beach ball, along with exclusive access to the “Partners Plaza.” Here, attendees can revel in games, giveaways, music, a photo booth, temporary tattoos, face painting, and a variety of complimentary snacks and drinks.
This year, the Long Beach Beauties, a spirited cheerleading squad composed of individuals with disabilities, take center stage. Joining them will be the Los Angeles Ghostbusters with their iconic Ghostbuster Mobile, the Kids Can Cosplay crew, Star Wars Cosplayers, and the beloved Norky the Peneagle character. Adding to the excitement, a team from Straight Up Abilities will lead warm-up activities, showcasing the power of professional performance art training for students both with and without disabilities.
Strides for Disability breaks down barriers and demonstrates what is possible with the right support, opportunities, and access. Together, they celebrate the progress being made in changing perceptions around disability and making tangible, positive differences in people’s lives.
Easterseals is at the forefront of championing equity, inclusion, and access through transformative disability and community services. With over a century of commitment, they work hand-in-hand with partners to enhance the quality of life and broaden local access to crucial resources in healthcare, education, and employment.
Serving more than 15,000 individuals annually, from early childhood through adulthood, their programs cover autism services, daily and independent living services, employment programs, veterans’ services, and more. Through education, policy advocacy, and public initiatives, they shape perceptions and address the evolving needs of one in four Americans with disabilities today. Together, they’re enabling individuals with disabilities, along with their families and communities, to be active and equal participants in society.
Learn more at: https://www.easterseals.com/southerncal
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