The Eliminate Project Walk: Saving lives before breakfast

"Baby steps." It’s a saying you often hear when people are trying to reach a large goal, but it rang true on a recent morning at The Eliminate Project Walk in New Orleans. More than 350 Kiwanis-club, Circle K International and Aktion Club members participated and volunteered in the event, which raised money to save or protect mothers and their future babies.

Shortly after 5 a.m., CKI volunteers began lining the course along the city's Riverwalk to cheer on Kiwanians who walked one mile to raise awareness for The Eliminate Project: Kiwanis eliminating maternal and neonatal tetanus. Kiwanis International President Alan Penn, The Eliminate Project Chairman Randy DeLay and former UNICEF staff member Dr. Francois Gasse kicked off the event shortly after 6 a.m.

As the sun rose over the Mississippi River, enthusiasm and support for the project began shining even brighter. Cheered on by CKI members, the walkers were then greeted at the finish line by Aktion Club volunteers, who gave out water, snacks and plenty of smiles. The Eliminate Project Walk not only showcased the Kiwanis family spirit, but also raised over US$4,500 for The Eliminate Project, saving or protecting more than 2,500 lives. This walk brings us one step closer to eliminating MNT. Thanks to Kiwains, Circle K and Aktion Club for helping to make the 97th Annual Kiwanis International Convention so special.