Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Before the Walkathon
What am I raising funds for?
Rainbow Missions has been focusing on empowering the lives of people with disabilities in China since 2005. We provide education, vocational training, rehabilitative, medical and social services to people with disabilities. A Walkathon will be held to raise $20,000 for the following initiatives:
- Deploying 3 specialist & professional to provide training and counseling service to disabled people and teachers this year.
- Sending 10 visually impaired college students to attend a life-changing summer learning camp in TJ, China.
What is the difference between this Walkathon and other charity walks?
In this Walkathon, you will be able to experience some of the challenges that visually impaired people or people with Cerebral Palsy face when they walk in a public setting. You will be blindfolded for part of the walk while being led by another person, or be tied to a partner as in a three-legged walk to complete the course.
When and where is the Walkathon?
The Walk-A-Thon will be held at Luther Burbank Park in Mercer Island (2040 84th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040) on Saturday, May 20, 2017. The check-in starts promptly at 9:30am and the Walkathon ends at or before 1:30p.m.
What does the course look like?
The course circles and goes around the Meadow Area B in Luther Burbank Park. It is a gravel trail.
How do I register?
You can register through our website www.therainbows.org by May 1, 2017.
On the Day of the Walkathon
Where do I check-in?
Check-in will be located at Meadow Area B beside the BBQ grill. (See map below)
When should I arrive for registration and check in? (See map below)
Check-in will begin at 9:30 am and end at 10:00a.m.
Where can I park? (See map below)
You may park your car at the North Parking lot which is near the Mercer Island Community Center. An alternative parking area is the Community Center’s parking lot and the South Parking lot. Please carpool if you can, as some spaces are likely to be taken up by other park users.
When does the walk start?
The walk will start promptly at 10:30am.
How long will the walk take?
The course is 0.1 mile per lap. You can walk as many laps as you wish within one hour.
Is it ok if I bring my children?
Of course! We encourage families with children to participate.
Is the course stroller-friendly?
No, it is a gravel trail.
Is it ok for me to bring my pet?
The park allows dogs, but for our event please leave your furry friends at home unless it is a service dog.
What should I wear?
Please wear our event t-shirt (it will be distributed when you check-in). A windbreaker is recommended for potentially rainy weather. Wear comfortable running shoes with good grip for boardwalks.
What if the weather is not suitable to get outside on the day of the Walkathon?
When you register for the Walkathon, you will be asked to provide your contact information. In case of any changes to our event, you will be contacted. Also, please check our website frequently for the most updated information.
Do you have a gear check or lost and found?
We do not have a gear check, so please leave your valuable belongings at home. We are not responsible for any lost items.
What if I get injured during the Walkathon?
We have a small group of medical volunteers stationed at the registration area. To ensure a safe event, please exercise regularly before the event. In case you need to be transferred to a hospital or emergency room, the cost for such care is your responsibility, whether covered by your insurance or out of pocket directly.
I’ve already registered but can’t make it anymore. Can I get a refund? Can I transfer my registration to someone else?
The registration fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. Your registration fees will fund our projects to support the children with disabilities and their families in China.
After the Walkathon
We will have a simple ceremony with music and snacks at the end of the Walkathon.
If you have other questions, please email us at rainbows@therainbows.org or call us at 206-734-7000. Thank you!