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Walk will benefit orphans
University of Mary Washington students will walk to raise money for an orphanage in Honduras, one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere.
Date published: 4/20/2006
By KATY HERSHBERGER When University of Mary Washington students stroll on campus Sunday, they won't be trekking to class or grabbing a bite to eat. They'll be helping orphans. This is the intent of Walk for Copprome, a walkathon to support an orphanage in Honduras, one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. Participants will walk five or 10 miles between 1:30 and 5 p.m. So far, the cause has raised approximately $12,000 according to UMW senior Shin Fujiyama, director of Students Helping Honduras (SHH). The group's goal is $33,000. If they reach it, local philanthropist Doris Buffet's Sunshine Lady Foundation will triple the proceeds up to $100,000. When Fujiyama met Buffet through a UMW economics class she sponsored last semester, he gave her a Christmas card made by one of the orphans in Copprome. Then he asked for her help. In March, her Sunshine Lady Foundation pledged to donate $2 for every $1 the walkathon raises. "I told her about Copprome and asked her if she could help," Fujiyama said. "She was so nice and taught me many things. She offered a triple challenge grant on the spot." All funds will support the Copprome orphanage, which houses, feeds and schools more than 70 children. It's in danger of closing due to lack of funding. Fujiyama and other students have volunteered in Copprome and the surrounding city of El Progreso to deliver donations, plant vegetable gardens and bring Christmas gifts to the children. Fujiyama got the idea for this event from a walkathon for Copprome that took place in El Progresso. "Thousands of people participated, but they made less than $3,000 total," he said. "People just do not have much to offer." Fujiyama expects about 500 walkers Sunday, including a group from the College of William & Mary and others from Northern Virginia and the Fredericksburg community. Participants can form teams or make the hike on their own. The event also will feature free food, live music and free massages. "I encourage people of all ages and walks of life to join the walkathon," Fujiyama said. "Together, we can save the lives of 70 children who have gone through so much suffering." ON THE NET: To register for the walk, studentshelpinghonduras.org. To reach KATY HERSHBERGER:
Date published: 4/20/2006
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