The “Why” Behind “Walking for Avenues”

Stephen Kray, President and CEO, Avenues to Independence

At Avenues to Independence, we believe deeply in the power of community and connection. That sense of belonging—of looking out for one another—is woven into everything we do. It’s true of our team, our clients, their families, and our incredible supporters. We don’t stand alone, and we work hard to ensure that no one gets left behind.

We’re bringing that same community spirit to our first-ever fundraising walk, “Walking for Avenues,” a family-friendly event taking place at Maine South High School in Park Ridge on June 14. We’ll be walking together to ensure everyone crosses the finish line, and of course, has fun along the way. 

My Own Path at Avenues

I started working for Avenues 15 years ago, and I’ve seen firsthand just how much this organization treats its staff, clients, donors, and volunteers like family.  I got my start in the residential program, working my way up over the course of 10 years, and was named a Residential Director just three months before the onset of the Covid pandemic. Those first few months were some of the toughest moments of my career, and it was especially challenging for organizations like ours who operate group home facilities with staff rotating each shift. 

I’d often wonder how we would make it through that unprecedented and fearful time, and it turns out, we did it by coming together. I did what I could to steady the ship as much as possible, and our staff went above and beyond to take care of our residents like they were their own family. I remember well how our Residential Manager, Linda Smith, put her own safety at risk and even quarantined onsite with residents for 14 days to protect others from exposure. It was a truly selfless act to ensure our clients had continued safe care, and showcased a level of dedication that deeply touched me as a leader. 

Why “Walking for Avenues” Matters

The idea for “Walking for Avenues” grew out of that same strong sense of dedication and connection across the Avenues community. We wanted the event to be more than a fundraiser, and instead create an experience that brings together clients, families, staff, and local supporters in a meaningful and accessible way. It gives everyone a chance to participate, side by side.

The walk also gives our community a meaningful new way to support Avenues. This is our first time trying peer-to-peer fundraising, and we’ve already seen an incredible response. Families are forming teams, sharing their stories, and inviting their friends and colleagues to contribute. Every little bit helps, and it’s another reminder that by coming together, we can make a real difference. 

Looking Ahead

As we prepare for our first walk, my hope is that this becomes a favorite Avenues tradition, just like our galas and golf outings, and one that becomes yet another symbol of our shared values.

No one gets left behind. Not in our homes, not in our programs, and certainly not at our walk! So bring your friends. Invite your neighbors. Join our Avenues family on June 14 and let’s take these steps forward, together.

Please consider making a donation to my fundraising page, creating your own, or supporting another team’s efforts here. We’ll see you in June!

 

Tags: walking for avenues , stephen kray

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