The sun is about to rise for the Twilight Trekkers as they prepare for Kilometres for CCD, 8 Days of Wellness.

The Trekkers, captained by Community Care Durham’s Leah Hoogkamp, originally formed for last year’s fundraising event. Over the course of the 2021 fundraiser, members of the Trekkers walked trails in all eight municipalities of Durham Region. They participated alone, and together, whenever they could.

Leah said she did a social media post from each trail she walked. Prior to the event, she had never set foot on any of the trails she ended up exploring.

“I gave a shoutout to anyone who donated $100 or more, and I had one person for every single day so that’s how I met my target,” she said.

One of her favourite ‘treks’ was on the Orono Crown Trail. Leah said it was well-marked, scenic, and dog friendly. She’s gone back to it numerous times since last year.

This year’s Kilometres for CCD takes place Sept. 24 to Oct. 1. Participants can walk, roll, or cycle, throughout the week culminating in the in-person event on Oct. 1 at Purple Wood Conservation Area in Oshawa. Every donation raised through the fundraiser helps CCD provide support services for individuals who have needs related to aging, physical and/or mental health, and those caring for them.

The Trekkers are again planning on doing 8 walks, in the 8 different municipalities. While that is their team goal, every team or individual who takes part in Kilometres for CCD can participate in any manner they choose. The important thing is to get involved, register and be active.

Leah said she’s really looking forward to bringing the Trekkers together on Oct. 1 at the in-person event at Purple Woods.

“It will be nice to be together and be active and social with our colleagues, friends and anyone else who wants to join the team,” she said.

Anyone who wants to become a Trekker, is welcome. Membership is not limited to last year’s members.

“The team is there (click here), it’s listed, click on join, the more the merrier, that’s our philosophy,” Leah said.

Leah will be posting trail locations and details for her Trekkers. The team plans on doing a couple of walks in advance to prepare for the event. Leah also has a surprise up her sleeve for her team members.

“Those who know me will be happy and they can probably figure out it involves a sewing machine,” she said.

If you would like to join the Trekkers or find out more information about Kilometres for CCD, visit https://communitycaredurham.akaraisin.com/ui/KMS2022.