With the weather cooling, walks and runs for charity are popping up all over the Twin Cities. I did my part Saturday for one of my favorite Twin Cities organizations, Minnesota Teen Challenge.

The organization helps teens and adults battle addictions through intensive treatment, faith-based recovery and aftercare. During 25 years of operation, they’ve generated so many amazing life-changing stories. How could I not be inspired to help their cause?

The group’s 2nd Annual Walk for Hope took place at Lake Harriet in Minneapolis. I fully expected there to be at least a little bit of chaos and lack of organization since it was only the second time the event had taken place. I quickly realized this was not the case at all. After a quick, easy and organized check-in, bagels and donuts were provided for breakfast while face painting, cotton candy and bean bag toss activities were provided to keep the children busy.

After the walk, we were fed lunch and snacks while the Minnesota Teen Challenge choir performed at the band shell. From start to finish, the walk proved to be a positive experience for all.

It was fun to see Minnesota Teen Challenge program participants and graduates walking beside all the walkers who came out to support the organization. Looking back, my favorite thing about the walk was that anyone could participate. You didn’t have to train for it or be athletic or in top-notch shape to participate.

It was a simple walk around the lake in support of a great cause on a gorgeous fall day for all people of all ages, regardless of age or athletic history. With a 500 participant increase since its first year in 2010, the Walk for Hope continues to steadily grow as more and more become aware of the positive impact Minnesota Teen Challenge has in our community. It was a great family-friendly event I strongly recommend participating in if you had the opportunity to experience it yet.

What are your favorite local causes? What’s your favorite Twin Cities non-profit? If you haven’t done so already, do you plan to participate in any walks or runs this year? If so, which ones?