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Walkers aim to ease poverty – Metro US

Walkers aim to ease poverty

Thousands of Calgarians took steps towards the solution to global poverty yesterday during the World Partnership Walk in Prince’s Island Park.

Now in its 26th year, the walk is an initiative of the Aga Khan Foundation of Canada and raises funds which go directly towards sustainable development in Asia, Africa and the Middle East, said long-time volunteer and spokesperson Rehana Rajabali.

“Over the last 25 years across the country, $50 million has been raised,” she said, adding that 100 per cent of the profits go towards the overseas projects.

Rajabali said she has been participating in the walk since she was about six and has a personal connection to the event.

“My parents grew up in one of the regions where AKFC works so they’ve certainly seen … the good work that is done.”

The event hosted around 5,000 participants and raised $900,000. One of the highest fundraising ambassadors was first-time walker Perry Cavanagh who raised more than $2,500.

“Something as simple as this — coming out and spending an hour of your time walking around in the glorious Calgary sunshine — which makes a significant difference … why wouldn’t you get involved?” he said.

Donations to the walk can still be made for the next week at www.worldpartnershipwalk.com.