T-minus 5 days until Bucks County Walk Day!

Welcome to the JDRF One Walk Bucks County Countdown! This week we are spotlighting our Bucks Walk volunteers and all that they make possible. Today, we celebrate those who donate their time and talents to the making Walk Day a success—our event day volunteers!

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The Keith Valley National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) is a group of middle school students within the Hatboro-Horsham School District who exemplify the pillars of “Scholarship, Leadership, Service, Citizenship and Character,” as defined by the organization. These amazing kids will be spending their Sunday morning at Warminster Community Park, making sure its smooth sailing throughout the One Walk event!

Read below to find out more about why this group of students volunteer for JDRF, as shared by NJHS advisors Carol Miller, Val Fasey, and Jamie Ginsberg.

Tell us about your group.

Each year, the students look to serve where they may be needed and they are able to make a difference.  The group is comprised of anywhere between 60 to 100 students. Within this organization there are always many directly affected by T1D. Students participating at the Walk each year interact with families and peers that they see within their community. The support to those individuals is the highlight for that student participating. It sends a message that we care and would like to find a cure for T1D—something that in today’s technological world is possible.

How does your group raise awareness of T1D on campus and in the community? 

Each year, the group hosts a dress down day for the faculty, many of whom also have direct connections to T1D. They also share with others that they will be participating as volunteers in hopes that many will donate to the Walk or also volunteer their assistance.

Each student feels that his or her time is valued as they work hard on their Walk Day assignments… It makes them feel good to know they are doing something positive in the way of changing the lives of those affected with T1D.

Why does your group choose to participate in JDRF One Walk?

Years ago, Hatboro-Horsham School District actually hosted the walk-a-thon for Bucks and Montgomery County. It began with a suggestion from a student whose neighbor would participate at the Walk in Philadelphia and then host a backyard party for all that have donated to the Walk.

The student—who later in life became a board member for JDRF—thought it would be great if we could move the Walk closer so that more could attend. With his suggestion, and the support of staff, it was set up at the high school. It moved across the street to the Commonwealth Business Campus in Horsham, then to Bucks County Community College/Tyler State Park, and this year it will be held at Warminster Park.

What is your group’s favorite part of volunteering for JDRF?

Each student feels that his or her time is valued as they work hard on their Walk Day assignments. They like cheering, working with the children at the Activity Tent, and speaking to individuals, as well as the overall “feel” of the event. It makes them feel good to know they are doing something positive in the way of changing the lives of those affected with T1D.

The members of Keith Valley NJHS appreciate the support in providing them the opportunity to volunteer. Thank you for opening your doors so that we may assist others.

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Registration for One Walk Bucks County is open and there’s plenty of time to assemble your team, as fundraising continues well beyond Walk Day. Celebrate all the hard work—or kick off the start of your fundraising!—with a day of fun at the Warminster Community Park on Sunday, September 30.

Interested in getting involved with JDRF One Walk? As a JDRF volunteer, you’ll join a community of people who care passionately about JDRF’s vision and are willing to do the work to help us make it a reality. We invite you to sign up to volunteer from the web or contact philadelphia@jdrf.org for more information. Your talents can make a huge difference.