The organization that supports those facing unplanned pregnancies wants to open a residential facility.
By DENISE WATSON BATTS
Published May 7, 2004
A Woman's Place ministries will hold its 10th annual "Walk For Life" Saturday at Ballast Point Park, 5300 Interbay Blvd.
Staff, volunteers, and friends of the nonprofit group will release balloons at 9 a.m. to signal the start of the 2-mile walk along Bayshore Boulevard. Registration begins at 8 a.m.
Last year's event drew 140 walkers and raised $25,000. Organizers hope to double those figures this year. Participants raise money by collecting pledges.
"It's a fun, family event," said Isabelle Liberatore, prevention services manager and marketing liaison for A Woman's Place.
The walk-a-thon is one of the group's most popular fundraisers. Its annual fall gala brings in more money but is a more upscale affair, Liberatore said. People of all ages and backgrounds can take part in the walk.
The communitywide event includes a "KidZone" featuring clowns, music, games and face painting. Everything is free, including food and drinks.
All money raised will go to A Woman's Place, a multidenominational organization that offers emotional and practical support to women facing unplanned pregnancies.
Started in 1989, it provides counseling, parenting classes, free pregnancy testing, referrals to other community agencies, and adoption services and support. The organization also gives food, clothing and furniture to women during their pregnancies and up to a year after they give birth.
The organization has locations at 612 S Orleans Ave. in Hyde Park North and at 2901 Busch Lake Blvd near Carrollwood. It's also planning to open a residential facility in the Seminole Heights area where pregnant women who are placing their children up for adoption can receive counseling and support. It should open within the year and eventually will house five women, Liberatore said.
A Woman's Place is having a walk-a-thon Saturday to benefit the group, which helps women facing unwanted pregnancies. The 2-mile walk along Bayshore Boulevard starts at 9 a.m. at Ballast Point Park. For information, call 931-1804 or go to www.awpm.net
