24 Fox Focus | Community
Parkinson ’ s Unity Walk Gains New Ground
Since its launch in 1994 , the Parkinson ’ s Unity Walk has become an annual staple on the community calendar . At its height before the pandemic , the Walk gathered 11,000 people — the largest number of participants for a singleday Parkinson ’ s fundraiser in the United States — in New York City ’ s Central Park for a day of activity , education and camaraderie . And since inception , the event has raised more than $ 29 million for research .
Last fall it was announced that the Unity Walk would transition to a new host in 2023 : The Michael J . Fox Foundation . As the event ’ s new presenter , MJFF is honored to carry forward the legacy of unity that has always been at the heart of this event .
As this newsletter went to press , the Foundation was preparing to welcome thousands of new and old friends in Central Park on April 22 . MJFF set an ambitious goal for its first year — to raise $ 1 million through grassroots fundraising . Thanks to a generous $ 1-million match by Connie and Steve Ballmer , that money will double its impact .
“ The best part of the Unity Walk is the community — seeing so many friends in one place is energizing ,” said Jim McNasby of New York City , who with his husband , Donny , has raised more than $ 1 million in Unity Walk
Carrying on the tradition : Participants at last year ’ s Parkinson ’ s Unity Walk ; thousands were expected at this year ’ s event presented by MJFF in April .
fundraising since 2007 . Jim also is MJFF ’ s Chief People Officer . “ Getting involved is empowering — you ’ re not just letting PD happen to you . You ’ re taking control and fighting back with a community beside you .”
In the ongoing spirit of the event , 100 percent of proceeds from fundraising will go to research and public policy priorities — initiatives that stand to elevate research and access to care programs that will benefit all families with Parkinson ’ s . Now more than ever , unity is vital to speeding momentum in Washington , D . C . as the community continues to seek approval in 2023 for The National Plan to End Parkinson ’ s Act .
“ I ’ m so glad to be part of this vibrant community ,” said McNasby . “ And I ’ m even more pleased that this event ’ s tradition will live on and grow for years to come .”