Phoenix nonprofit St. Joseph the Worker will host its 26th Annual Hike for Hope 7:30-11 a.m. on Saturday, April 6 at McDowell Mountain Regional Park’s Pemberton Trailhead at 16300 McDowell Mountain Park Drive in Fountain Hills.

The Hike for Hope event offers participants a choice between a 1.5-mile or 4.5-mile hike, offering a fun and interactive way for people of all ages and their pets to make a difference in the community. Registration is $50 for adults and $10 for all children under the age of 13 and includes an adult T-shirt and breakfast with coffee. All proceeds will help the nonprofit in eliminating obstacles to employment, equipping clients with the necessary resources to achieve financial success and self-sufficiency.

"As we embark on our 26th Annual Hike for Hope, we are reminded of the power of community and compassion," stated Carrie Masters, CEO of St. Joseph the Worker in a news release. "Through this event, we not only raise vital funds but also awareness and hope for those striving for financial independence. Inspiring change, step by step, towards a brighter future for all." 

To register for the 26th Annual Hike for Hope or to make a donation, visit sjwjobs.org/hike4hope.  The event was formerly known as Hike for the Homeless.

With a goal of raising $100,000, SJW has implemented a friendly competition leaderboard on the event page, which highlights the top fundraisers. Hike for Hope participants can register and make donations as individuals or teams. The top two individual fundraisers will be given prizes. Teams are also encouraged to come in costume. The best team costume will receive a catered lunch for 10 by Helpings Cafe, a social enterprise that helps end homelessness in our community. 

In addition, SJW is organizing a 50/50 raffle for the event. Tickets can be purchased online here or on-site for $5 each, with the option to bundle three tickets for $10 or six tickets for $20. The winner will receive 50% of the raffle proceeds, while the remaining 50% will directly support SJW. The drawing will take place on the day of the event, and participants do not need to be present to win.

Parking at McDowell Mountain Regional Park is free for event participants. SJW suggests hikers bring a water bottle, sun hat, sunscreen, hiking shoes and cash or credit cards to purchase raffle tickets, as well as waste bags and a water bowl for pets.

The 26the Annual Hike for Hope is sponsored by Edward Jones, Four Peaks Rotary, Lime, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, The Middle League, Crossroads, TTI, Kelly Geary (The Middle League), Garth Stevens, Snell & Wilmer, NYC Café Arizona, SanTan Brewing Company and RS, Inc. 

Editor's note: The above was republished form a St. Joseph the Worker news release.