March of Dimes walk set in Sebring

The March of Dimes Foundation will hold its March for Babies service and walk in downtown Sebring from 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday, May 1.

The Sebring City Council approved a request last Tuesday night from Connie Young, community director with the foundation.

The March for Babies event was started in 1970 and is the group's largest fundraiser.

Checkpoint sponsorships are available for $250.

"There are other sponsorship levels available," said Young. "They include advertising and promotion opportunities, both on walk day and the months preceding the walk."

There is also recognition for the top team, the top walker.

"It's really more of a festival atmosphere," she said.

There will be a kickoff meeting on Feb. 25 for any existing teams or anyone interested in starting a team.

Admission is free. Companies can enter teams, individuals and families can enter, she said.

In 2009, about 150 participants from Highlands, Hardee and DeSoto counties marched in Highlands Hammock State Park. The foundation is hoping to attract 200 to 250 walkers this year.

The nearly four-mile long route starts from West Center Avenue and runs along Lakeview Drive to Hiawatha Avenue to Home Avenue to the Sebring Parkway to North Ridgewood Drive and back to Circle Park.

There will be checkpoints and rest stops along the way for the walkers.

Call the Connie Young at the March of Dimes office for more information at 863-687-8909 or go to www.marchforbabies.org.