Disability walk
By Barbara Arntsen
Published in News on May 13, 2004 2:59 PM
Sunny smiles beamed from the faces of the 500 people walking in Wednesday's annual Mayor's Committee for Persons with Disabilities Walk.
In the eight years since it began, participation in the walk has more than doubled.
"This is one of the biggest walks around the area, as far as how many people participate," said Scottie Weathers, a committee member. "But a lot of people just don't realize that."
The Goldsboro Middle School band provided the music for those who followed the route in wheelchairs and on foot.
The five-block walk began at St. Paul United Methodist Church on John Street, went over
to Chestnut Street, down Center Street,
then back to the church. The line of walkers stretched for two blocks.
Goldsboro Mayor Pro Tem Chuck Allen filled in for Mayor Al King, who was out of town Wednesday.
Allen said he had never been to the walk, but was glad he could come this year. He led the walk, helping to hold the banner.
Jim Mullen, chairman of the committee, said the walk was a way to raise awareness about people with disabilities.
"We have it during the disability awareness week, so people know we're here and are aware of the services available for people with disabilities," Ms. Weathers explained.
Booths sponsored by a number of different agencies, including the Governor's Advocacy Group, were lined up in the walkway outside St. Paul United Methodist Church.
In addition to the annual march, the committee also sponsors an annual awards luncheon in October.