Over 45,000 Unite For Local Causes In 100 BAPS Charities Walk-Runs
Photo: BAPS Charities Walk – Los Angeles, CA
India-West Staff Reporter
NEW YORK – More than 45,000 participants across 100 U.S. cities took part in the annual BAPS Charities Walk-Run this past weekend, supporting a diverse range of local causes. Each city directed funds to community priorities including fire and police departments, schools, veterans’ services, mental health, cancer care, and family wellness programs.
This year’s theme, “Spirit of Service,” was reflected in the variety of beneficiaries. In Houston, the walk helped raise funds for NAMI Greater Houston’s mental health services amid rising demand. San Jose walkers focused on supporting local public schools, while Orlando’s event benefited a children’s cancer camp. Dallas participants rallied behind veterans, and communities in Detroit and Albany contributed to local fire departments. Philadelphia walkers supported underserved neighborhoods and community centers.
Angela Hudson, CEO of NAMI Greater Houston, praised the effort: “Wonderful charities like BAPS Charities are helping to fight the stigma around mental health, and we appreciate you for that.”
The event drew people of all ages—from teenagers like 16-year-old Aarav Dubal of Robbinsville, New Jersey, to seniors using canes in Los Angeles—demonstrating a broad community commitment. Bhargav Ashier, a participant from Edison, New Jersey, said, “It’s one thing to care, but another to show up. This weekend, America showed up in force.”
In Sugar Land, Texas, Mayor Joe Zimmerman highlighted the impact: “Your community makes a real difference in Sugar Land. What you do matters.”
Since its inception over 20 years ago, BAPS Charities has organized more than 1,100 Walk-Runs across North America, building a grassroots network of civic engagement. Nilkanth Patel, President of BAPS Charities, called it “the kindness ripple effect,” emphasizing the nationwide spirit of compassion connecting cities from New York to Houston, San Jose to Detroit.
