Walk/Run for Abilis is an annual fall tradition, with this year’s walk on Sunday, October 16th, being the nonprofit organization’s 17th annual Walk/Run. Part of that tradition is naming a Walk/Run ambassador! This year’s Walk/Run for Abilis Ambassador is Sophia Moubayed, a 24 year-old resident of Darien, Connecticut, and Abilis program participant.
Sophia lives independently in her own apartment in Darien and works two jobs, which include at The Café at Darien Library, which Abilis operates, and at Juice Press in Darien. She is currently working on her second degree brown belt in karate and loves to ride horses, which she does at a stable in Stamford, Connecticut.
“Abilis is like a second family to me,” said Sophia Moubayed. “I’m so honored to be named the Walk/Run for Abilis ambassador for 2022 and excited for the walk on Sunday, October 16th!”
The 17th annual Walk/Run for Abilis will take place at Greenwich Point Park in Old Greenwich, Connecticut. Participants can walk 1-mile or run a 5k in-person or participant virtually from anywhere in the world! Participants are encouraged to register in advance at abilis.us/walkrun. Registration is free for walkers, $40 for 5k runners 18+ and $20 for runners ages 11-17.
“We are thrilled to have Sophia as this year’s Walk/Run ambassador,” noted Amy Montimurro, CEO and president of Abilis. “Sophia is a great example of how specific supports, job skill training and life skills can help support a young adult with a disability. Sophia lives independently in our Abilis apartments in Darien and enjoys living and working in the community.”
Walk/Run for Abilis provides an opportunity for family, friends and Abilis community members to come together for a fun morning of physical fitness and enjoy the beauty of Greenwich Point Park. Proceeds provide critical funds for Abilis programs and services that support those with disabilities. The Walk/Run is Abilis’ largest annual fundraiser and signature “friend-raising” event of the year. Many who take part in Walk/Run for Abilis do so because they are inspired by a friend or family member with a developmental disability.
Prizes are awarded for best outfits and teams are encouraged to create team t-shirts, buttons, hats or create their own banner to increase visibility, show team spirit and potentially win an Abilis creativity award! Those who choose to participate virtually, from another county, state or country, can do so and post on social media with the hashtag #walkrunforabilis.
Sponsorship for Walk/Run for Abilis is a great way to show support. Abilis thanks its generous sponsors Holland & Knight, DARCARS Lexus of Greenwich | Infiniti of Greenwich, and Moffly Media. Those interested in becoming a sponsor for Walk/Run for Abilis should contact Rebecca Muskus at muskus@abilis.us or 203-531-1880.
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