Latest news with #BAPSCharities
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Across the U.S., Over 45,000 Participate in 100 BAPS Charities Walks
NEW YORK, June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a powerful display of community unity and service, more than 45,000 Americans across 100 cities participated in the annual BAPS Charities Walk-Run this past weekend, turning local streets into pathways of collective action. Through a unique approach, this nationwide initiative allowed each city to support causes that mattered most to their communities. This year, the Walk-Run supported over 50 local organizations—from fire and police departments to groups serving veterans, seniors, women, and the homeless. More than 20 health-focused nonprofits also benefited, including those advancing mental health, cancer care, and family wellness. Several schools and education programs received support as well—underscoring how the Walk continues to make a meaningful impact in neighborhoods across the country. The volunteer effort highlighted a quiet but profound spirit of service, as families and individuals set out to make a difference. From 16-year-old Aarav Dubal lacing his sneakers in Robbinsville, New Jersey, to seniors walking with canes in Los Angeles, California, the energy was contagious. This year's theme, "Spirit of Service," resonated deeply in cities and communities across the country. In Houston, TX, the walk supported NAMI Greater Houston, helping fund vital mental health services in a city where post-pandemic demand has surged. In San Jose, CA, thousands laced up to provide essential resources for local public schools. Orlando, FL walkers raised funds for a children's cancer camp, while the Dallas, TX community rallied behind local veterans to ensure they receive the support they deserve. In Detroit, MI, participants walked to support their community, and in Albany, NY, the walk also benefited the local fire department. Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, PA, walkers gave back to underserved neighborhoods and community centers. "Wonderful charities like BAPS Charities are helping to fight the stigma around mental health, and we appreciate you for that," said Angela Hudson, CEO of NAMI Greater Houston. The wide range of causes supported by the walk made a meaningful impact across communities and enhanced the well-being of individuals and families. "It's one thing to care," said Bhargav Ashier, a participant in Edison, NJ. "But it's another thing to show up. And this weekend, America showed up in force, proving that compassion is a powerful force for change." The event's unique community-focused structure allowed each city to maximize its local impact, reflecting specific needs. In Sugar Land, TX, hundreds joined the walk, including Mayor Joe Zimmerman, who lauded the effort: "Your community makes a real difference in Sugar Land. What you do matters." For over 20 years, BAPS Charities has cultivated this grassroots model, empowering everyday citizens to become changemakers. With more than 1,100 Walk-Runs organized across North America, over the past 20 years, the initiative has built a vast network of civic engagement. Nilkanth Patel, President of BAPS Charities, describes it as "the kindness ripple effect." "From New York to Houston, and San Jose to Detroit, our interconnected community," Mr. Patel explained, "is driven by compassion, ensures our work touches lives in cities all across the country." At a time when the importance of unity and harmony is paramount, this weekend offered a rare and compelling portrait of communities moving forward—step by step, city by city—towards tangible improvements in the lives of its citizens. About BAPS Charities BAPS Charities is a global charity active in nine countries across five continents. With over 50 years of experience in humanitarian work, BAPS Charities aims to establish a spirit of selfless service through health awareness, educational services, humanitarian relief, environmental protection & preservation, and community empowerment. In critical times, BAPS Charities has swiftly responded to the needs of affected communities, mobilizing volunteers, and resources to provide crucial aid. From local activities such as hosting community health fairs to global efforts like sustaining schools and hospitals, BAPS Charities provides a platform for individuals wishing to serve locally and globally. For additional information on BAPS Charities and its international and local philanthropic activities, please visit Media ContactContact: Lenin JoshiEmail: media@ 732-777-1414 ext 3352 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE BAPS Charities
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
BAPS Charities raises thousands for Children's Cancer Center Tampa
The Brief BAPS Charities presented a check for $10,000 to the Children's Cancer Center in Tampa. Center leaders say this money helps provide comfort to more children and their caregivers. BAPS is a global organization with chapters in 5 continents and 9 countries. TAMPA - Some of the greatest joys and memories in life can come from our childhoods. But kids battling pediatric cancer and chronic blood disorders are often robbed of those experiences. That's where the Children's Cancer Center steps in. The backstory "It really is such a special place," explained Brittany Rudolph, COO of the Children's Cancer Center in Tampa. "We've been around for 50 years. The kids consider it their clubhouse. It's not a place where they get pricked and prodded, but a place they can be with kids that are just like them. They can pull their wigs off and feel comfortable being around children that are going through their similar battle. They call it the cancer party, and if that's what they're calling it, we're doing something right." Rudolph joined BAPS Charities on Sunday at Al Lopez Park as they presented her non-profit a check for $10,000. She says this will allow them to provide comfort to even more children and their caregivers. Dig deeper "We have 30 programs that it will funnel into; emotional, financial ,and educational support for every member of the family. We say when a child is diagnosed, the whole family is diagnosed, so we're there for them every step of this difficult journey." BAPS is a global organization with chapters in five continents and nine countries which raises money for different charities within their communities. The Children's Cancer Center was just one of several selected in the Bay Area to receive a generous donation at their annual walkathon, after the BAPS Tampa Chapter raised a total of $60,000 within this last year. "I think the real beauty of this organization lies in the people," said longtime BAPS volunteer, Hari Patel. "I mean, if you look around, you'll see kids, students, working professionals from all around the Tampa Bay community coming here, not just on their Sunday but helping around the entire month for this event and I think that speaks to the service and the mission of this organization." The Source FOX 13's Regina Gonzalez gathered the information for this story. STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 13 TAMPA: Download the FOX Local app for your smart TV Download FOX Local mobile app: Apple | Android Download the FOX 13 News app for breaking news alerts, latest headlines Download the SkyTower Radar app Sign up for FOX 13's daily newsletter Follow FOX 13 on YouTube
