The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s Long Island Chapter will host its annual Take Steps event at North Hempstead Beach Park on Sunday, Oct. 22 at 11 a.m. to raise funds to find cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Advocate, Team Captain and Mineola resident, Joel Harris, who is the Kiwanis New York State District Governor for Kiwanis International, has led the charge for both Take Steps Walks in Long Island raising more than $25,000! With over 260 clubs statewide Joel travels throughout New York visiting these clubs and being part of their fundraising and service projects. “This is and continues to be an amazing experience traveling the state and meeting with the clubs from Buffalo to Montauk Point.” Joel does an incredible job helping to energize, motivate and open doors to Kiwanis Clubs across the country to help spread awareness.
Kiwanis Clubs across the country have committed to finding cures by helping to raise awareness of inflammatory bowel diseases and advance the Foundation’s research, education, support, and advocacy initiatives.
Joel states: “I am walking to raise awareness for everyone who has Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.”
Executive Director of the Long Island Chapter Lisa Schwerdt shares “Joel is an extraordinary partner and advocate for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s Long Island Chapter. His priority is spreading awareness and ensuring that people with IBD know about the resources and support that the Foundation and the Chapter provide while securing donations to continue to fund these programs as well as critical research to get us closer to cures. We truly value and appreciate his diligent efforts and are pleased to be honoring him as the 2023 Champion Advocate at Gold Coast Take Steps Walk.” Joel will be joined on stage by Adult Honored Hero & IBD patient, Jeanine Bradley of Levittown and Pediatric Honored Hero & IBD patient, Emily Oak of Babylon.
Take Steps is the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s largest nationwide event dedicated to finding cures and raising awareness for digestive diseases. Our events offer an incredible day for family, friends, and the community to celebrate all the efforts that have been put forth in raising funds for our mission. It is a day that combines high energy and fun with access to valuable information and education.