“I joined a friend, who lost one of his sisters to breast cancer,” says Cathy Mayeda, Nephrology associate staff specialist, Southern California Region. “In honor of one of her recent goals, several family members and friends pledged to walk at least one mile a day for 100 consecutive days, ending on her birthday. That’s what KP Walk! is about — encouraging us to walk and thrive.”

Charity walks abound this time of year, providing opportunities to improve your health while raising money for worthwhile causes. Use fundraising events to your healthy advantage:

• Set your goals. Decide how far you will walk and how much money you’ll raise. Keep your eye on the benefits of meeting these goals — for yourself and others.

• Train for the occasion. Walk 30 minutes a day, five days a week, to prepare for the big day, or follow a doctor-approved plan to build up to your goal.

• Recruit volunteers. Tell your friends, family, and co-workers about your charity walk and invite them to train with you.

Walk for charity and improve your health along the way.