MallWalk celebrates 30 years with anniversary event ahead

This paid event listing is sponsored by LifeScape.

For perspective, 1994 was the year Tom Hanks won an Oscar for best actor in “Forrest Gump.” It also was the first year for the LifeScape fundraiser MallWalk.

The idea was conjured up by Joan Olson, a member of the organization’s auxiliary. The group was looking for a way to raise money for the extras that would help improve the quality of life for those supported by LifeScape, then known as Children’s Care Hospital & School.

“We did have a good turnout our first year we thought,” Olson said. “But after that, we got sponsors, urged people to form teams and the kids and their families got involved, and it really took off.” One million transformative dollars later, MallWalk will celebrate its 30th year Saturday, Feb. 3.

Proceeds, which last year topped $78,000, fund the Needs & Dreams Wish List at LifeScape. These are goods and services not in the regular budget but would make a difference in the lives of children and adults supported by LifeScape.

The money is raised by teams that register at LifeScapeMallWalk.org and ask their friends and family for donations. Others can join the team for $30 — to celebrate 30 years. Many teams are led by families of kids or adults supported by LifeScape who recognize the value of the Wish List purchases.  The top two fundraising teams and top fundraising individual receive recognition and plaques.

For the past several years, the top team has been “Smiley Goats,” led by Jeff and Erin Horstmeyer. Jeff also usually garners top individual fundraiser honors. Jeff and Erin have had a team every year since 2005 in honor of their son, Samuel John. Sammy was served by LifeScape and passed away in 2010 at the age of 8. For the Horstmeyers, leading a MallWalk team helps keep Sammy’s memory alive, which is especially important for their daughter, Natalie, now 9, who never knew her brother.

“MallWalk is great because anyone can participate — no matter what your income level is or what the needs of your child are,” Erin Horstmeyer said.

“Sammy needed us around the clock, so we weren’t able to go to gala fundraisers, but we could bring him along to MallWalk. As we grew, extended family got involved. It got to be a time we could get together, so it became a social thing too. The camaraderie with the people you meet and the bonds you make — it was something we looked forward to every year.”

Held each year on the first Saturday in February, MallWalk features a DJ, mascots, cosplay characters, face painting, games and a joyful vibe that brings together hundreds of people — many of them old friends who see each other only at MallWalk. For many years, the lead sponsor has been First Premier Bank/Premier Bankcard.

This year’s fundraising goal is $100,000. Past proceeds have gone to such things as a ventilator for the Children’s Specialty Hospital, curriculum for the special education school, birthday parties and event tickets, state-of-art therapy equipment, and furniture, grocery support and rent for adults supported by LifeScape.

Registration opens at 8 a.m. Feb. 3  at the Sephora/Athleta entrance at The Empire Mall.  The walk starts at 9:30 a.m., and the event ends about 11 a.m. Many MallWalkers stay to shop and have lunch at the mall.

To make a contribution to a team, sign up as an individual walker or start a team, visit LifeScapeMallWalk.org. Contact event coordinator Anna Casey with any questions: 605-444-9806 or [email protected].