Fifth annual Walk and Roll sets new records

Walk and Roll images Click above to watch a short picture slideshow with audio from the fifth annual Walk and Roll. (Slideshow by Andrew Nelson and Nicole Lindquist, UNMC public relations)

A record 608 walkers and rollers helped to raise nearly $30,000 for adult recreation therapy programs at Munroe-Meyer Institute by participating in the fifth annual Walk and Roll for Disabilities.

The total money raised is a new Walk and Roll record. (EDITOR’S NOTE: Pun intended.)

Sponsored by the C. Louis Meyer Foundation, No Frills Supermarkets, KGOR and Crouch Recreational Design, the event was held on Feb. 22 at Westroads.

“We’re just amazed at how this event grows every year,” Michael Crawford, Re.D., director of recreation therapy at MMI, told the crowd. “It’s very gratifying to see so many of you support us.”

C. Louis Meyer Foundation President Jan Leuenberger praised the recreational therapy department staff members and the families they serve.

“The folks wearing the blue shirts are really the heroes,” she said.

Program participant and honorary captain Sarah Gardels kicked off the fundraiser with an airhorn, which was followed by entertainment from the Salem Steppin’ Saints, drummers and marchers from Omaha’s Salem Baptist Church.

Sarah first came to MMI when she was a young girl to be fitted for adaptive leg braces and footwear. She’s attended Camp Munroe and Girls’ Group over the years and now comes to MMI on Thursday nights, where she and other adults with developmental disabilities gather to listen to music, cook meals and create art.

“We’re just amazed at how this event grows every year. It’s very gratifying to see so many of you support us.” Michael Crawford, Re.D.

Also serving as captains were former Nebraska football player and Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch and KETV Channel 7’s Mike’l Severe, who has a son with a genetic disorder.

“Miles is a great example of what Munroe-Meyer can do and does do for all kids and adults with disabilities,” Severe said.

Through the MMI Recreational Therapy Department, not only do adults with disabilities have opportunities for both community and center-based recreation, but the programs also allow for much-needed respite for families and caregivers of those with developmental disabilities.