Six weeks ago, the Pregnancy Help Center (PHC) in Torrance was gearing up for its 33rd annual Walk for Life South Bay, organizing food vendors, setting up a selfie station, and mapping out the path walkers would use to raise money for the center’s work.
Now, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic and strict social distancing requirements, PHC has been forced to call off the walk. But instead of canceling altogether, they’re going virtual — and asking participants to submit their steps a little bit differently.
“These are craa-zy times!” the center’s website reads. “Take the challenge: 500 crazy steps for life!”
It costs $500 to take care of one woman at the clinic, so PHC is asking participants to film themselves taking 500 crazy steps — walking, dancing, jumping, or any combination — and create a one- to -two minute video of their best moves, and submit the video by May 8, following the instructions on their site.
“Our services are vital, and Walk for Life South Bay has gone virtual,” said PHC marketing and communications manager Norma Grove. “In this time of economic and emotional uncertainty, the women who use our services, who are experiencing unexpected pregnancies, are even more vulnerable than ever.”
PHC has virtual bibs available for download so walkers can wear them while making their videos. It’s one way to keep the spirit of the walk alive. Another is fueling the competitive spirit. Walkers who have raised at least $50 will be entered into the PHC contest. On May 16, the date of the original walk, PHC will share the videos and announce a prize winner in a live Zoom event.
For more information, visit supportphctorrance.org/.
