On May 31, 2025, BAPS Charities brought the community together in Pelham, Alabama, for its annual “Spirit of Service: Walk-Run.” This inspiring event rallied support for the Kerry and Gary Foundation, which benefits the ALS Association, Kids to Love, and East Central United Cerebral Palsy—raising awareness for ALS, foster care, and cerebral palsy while promoting health and service.
Nearly 300 participants of all ages took part in the event, including several distinguished guests who joined in support of the cause. Among them were John Merrill, former Secretary of State of Alabama; Mike Shaw, Representative for Alabama House District 47; Patrick Sellers, Representative for District 57; Kenneth Paschal, Representative for District 73; Maurice Mercer, Pelham City Council President; Shane Ruffin, Executive Director of East Central Alabama United Cerebral Palsy (ECAUCP); and Janet Thorn, Senior Director at the ALS Association.
Janet Thorn of the ALS Association shared, “Events like this Walk-Run uplift families affected by ALS and give them hope and community. We’re honored to be a part of it.”
The event was graciously hosted and sponsored by Oak Mountain State Park, offering a beautiful setting for a day that exemplified unity and purpose. Representative Mike Shaw remarked, “You not only talk the talk, but you walk the walk—literally, today. We’re so thankful for what you bring to our community.”
Reflecting on the significance of the event, John Merrill added, “More than any other year, this one has been personal to me… I’ve supported the Kerry and Gary Foundation and United Cerebral Palsy for decades.” He commended BAPS Charities as a “cooperative, collaborative example for all 67 counties in Alabama.”
Beyond promoting a healthy lifestyle, the Walk-Run highlighted the power of unity—each step taken symbolizing a contribution to a greater cause. This event was one of over 100 similar BAPS Charities Walk-Runs held across North America, which together engage over 45,000 participants annually. For more than two decades, BAPS Charities has organized over 1,100 Walk-Runs, supporting local organizations and fostering a spirit of service and togetherness.
