More than 14 years ago, the founders of The Cancer Support Center in Homewood wanted to raise community awareness for the free programs of support for those who had been affected by cancer.

For this reason, the 10th annual Walk of Hope, taking place in Homewood and Flossmoor on Oct. 5, is a community-focused fundraising and awareness event.

The Walk of Hope is open to the entire Southland community, and it can be a powerful experience for those who have lost someone to cancer. Each year, team captains are motivated to raise funds in memory or honor of loved ones as well as raise awareness.

The walk is a day-long event at which more than 1,000 walkers stroll through one-, three-, and five-mile walk routes beginning and ending at Irwin Park in downtown Homewood. There also will be a 10-Step Walk of Hope for cancer survivors or others who choose not to complete the longer routes.

Following the walk, participants enjoy a community celebration with music, games for children, food from local vendors and more.

Teams are forming now and registration and event information is at www.CancerSupportCenter.org.

Events on Oct. 5 begin at Irwin Park in downtown Homewood with on-site registration at 10:30 a.m. An inspirational ceremony and awards presentation starts at 11:30 a.m., and all walkers begin at 12:15 p.m.

A Celebration of Hope begins at 12:30 p.m., and continues until all walkers have returned to Irwin Park. This is a rain or shine event.

More information is at www.CancerSupportCenter.org.

- THE TIMES