Written by: Sydney Devine

Take advantage of the sunny spring weather by taking a stroll through VSU’s beautiful campus while supporting a good cause.

In partnership with The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), VSU will host the first annual NEDA walk March 8 on the VSU Front Lawn.

Tori Baldwin, SGA senator for student affairs, is the event coordinator who made it possible for the Valdosta community to join the cause that NEDA works and walks for.

“During last October, I thought about what I could do to start a new project for the Valdosta community and came across the National Eating Disorder Association and how important it is to raise awareness in our current society,” Baldwin said.  

Participants and local teams who have signed up for the event will walk through campus to raise awareness about the dangers of eating disorders.

NEDA also stresses the need for intervention and treatment for those who suffer from eating disorders.

All participants are encouraged to invite friends and family to the event and to offer the opportunity for their local community to make donations to the cause, which will go toward the walk fundraising goal for this year.

Valdosta’s current fundraising goal is $5,000. The money raised will go toward supporting NEDA’s program and services.

“Not only does the NEDA walk spread awareness, but the funds raised and donated by participants goes straight to supporting treatment centers and those seeking help,” Baldwin said. 

NEDA’s services are not limited to community outreach. NEDA also helps eating-disorder victims find recovery while connecting with the parents, friends and family of those who struggle.

Currently, there are several teams registered; however, it is not too late to sign up. Register online at neda.nationaleatingdisorders.org or at VSU on the day of the walk.  

The Valdosta community can expect a beautiful Saturday morning of positive awareness and an inspirational walk to show support,” Baldwin said.