News: Record Turnout for GSA Walk for Shelter

Photo courtesy/ Good Shepherd Alliance 

(Sept. 17, 2012) - The 2012 GSA Walk for Shelter kicked-off at Douglass School pavilion on East Market Street in Leesburg Saturday with a record 492 men, women, students and children participating.

The 1.2 mile walk continued through historic downtown Leesburg. Special family activities following the walk included moon bounces, face painting and balloon animals. A free barbeque and grilled hot dog lunch was served by Common Ground Church (Leesburg) and Christ Community Church (Ashburn).


Leesburg Supervisor Ken Reid was a featured guest speaker and town police and parks and recreation personnel supported the event.

GSA Board Chair Mark Gunderman: "The GSA prays that all our small steps taken today would lead to larger steps toward helping the homeless tomorrow. We believe that each walker might be a voice for those whose voices are rarely heard. Many grandparents, parents and children walked with GSA board members and staff. Parents have previously said that the walk provided an educational experience raising awareness about homelessness. The youth especially gained appreciation for the many blessings provided by their own families."