Wicomico County Bark For Life will be hosting its annual walk to benefit the American Cancer Society, but this year it’s going virtual. The walk, which brings dogs and their owners together to support cancer research and more, returns this October with a few changes to keep the event fun and safe.
Bark For Life, a Relay For Life event, invites walkers to walk with their four-legged best friend in support of the fight against cancer. The virtual walk will be run over the course of a week in October, between the 16th and 23rd, this year. During that time, walkers can get out to complete a walk, then return to the virtual platform to join in the rest of the event. Games, contests, and prizes will all be part of the excitement.
Tickets for this event are available online via EventBrite.com. The entry fee is $15 per person. All ticket holders will be sent a goodie bag in the mail with an event dog bandana, dog treats, and other items. Those who purchase tickets will also be granted perks such as additional entries during the events and contests throughout the week. Volunteer coordinator Nikki Bruno, shared that some activities on the table include posting photos of you walking with your dog, a guessing game of number of treats in a jar and more.
While the event stems out of Wicomico County, participants do not need to be from Wicomico County to take part. In fact, due to the changes made for 2020, owning a dog is not required to join. All are welcome to enjoy the festivities, even without a ticket. Historically, the walk—which has been going on in Wicomico since 2010—would take place in WinterPlace Park in Salisbury. Walkers would bring their dogs, which have to fit certain requirements in person, to take part in a walk and activities. The virtual event continues to follow the traditions of the in-person walk but with a slight reduction in barriers such as breed and age restrictions for dog companions and no cap on the number of attendees.
Whether virtual or in person, Bark For Life proceeds go to Relay For Life of Wicomico County to benefit the American Cancer Society, which includes support for the Hope Lodge. Aside from buying a ticket, businesses and individuals can support the event and its cause through sponsorships. There are different levels of sponsorships ranging from $50 to $250 which provide a variety of opportunities. The different tiers can include such benefits as recognition on social media, a certificate of appreciation, advertising and more. Those interested in sponsoring the event can reach out to
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for information on the tiers and the sponsorship form.
“Cancer doesn’t stop and neither can we,” Bruno explains, has been the motto for 2020. She stuck to that motto deciding to head Bark For Life this year and says, “Even though [Bark For Life] is going virtual we still want to raise awareness and raise what we can for the American Cancer Society.”
