At RM’s annual Walk for the Homeless, students Carmen’s ice-cream, a T-shirt, and the rewarding sense of satisfaction that accompanies any charitable act—but they gave so much more.

All $980 raised this year will support the local Stepping Stones shelter, including the financial, parenting, and career education programs the homeless shelter offers.

As sophomore Sonja Hatten explained, “It is a little thing that has a big impact.” Upon arriving, participating students were greeted by Stepping Stones executive director Robin Sparer and volunteer coordinator Mary Bennett. The two staff members expressed their gratitude for the event and the donations it would yield. “We’re always in need of extra funds, especially now that homelessness has gotten to be a more serious issue with the current economic downturn…It’s a tough time for people out there,” said Sparer.

Bennett spoke of the families who come to the shelter, who “are all here to start over again.”

The shelter has a hands-on approach to helping families and offers many volunteer opportunities for students. Student groups often make and deliver meals, play with or tutor the children, and design and perform landscaping needs.

“Stepping Stones is amazing for taking in families in their times of need,” said junior Jenn Carrick. “My friend and I are going to start volunteering here.”

SGA sponsor Toni Kellinger notes that the issue of homelessness inspires volunteers everywhere. “The Walk for the Homeless is a national event that raises money to help the homeless in America,” she said. “There is a big walk downtown in November and mini-walks across the country.” Richard Montgomery’s Walk for the Homeless is one of these mini-walks, although it has yet to become a school tradition.

“The event was [only] established three years ago,” said Kellinger. “Since this is a relatively new event we will continue to work on ways to increase the turnout for this most worthy cause.”

“[The event] is an easy way to get involved in a community issue,” said SGA president Rachel Burke. “Hopefully it will be a RM tradition for years to come.”

The walk seems to be gaining in popularity. Since its initiation, the Walk for the Homeless has been gaining support and participation from students.

“It’s really fun, relatively inexpensive, and you know you’re making a difference,” said Sophomore Elizabeth Axley.

Senior Jiayi Yang summarized the spirit of the event, calling the walk “an event of heartwarming significance.”