First lady to walk state to benefit child-advocacy centers

The fund-raiser, called “Andrea Walks for Tennessee’s Children,” will begin in Memphis on Sept. 8, covering 600 miles before reaching Blountville in mid-November.

After a break, the walk will resume in mid-February, with a tentative completion date of May 1.

Conte, who is an experienced marathon walker, and other participants are to walk 10 to 20 miles a day. The event was announced during a news conference.

“I’m not doing this alone,” Conte said in a statement. The event involves 27 nonprofit organizations, including 25 child advocacy centers, the Tennessee Chapter of Child Advocacy Centers and You Have the Power Inc., a victims’ advocacy group Conte founded.

“These organizations are working diligently every day on behalf of children who become victims of abuse, and we’ll be working to raise awareness and greatly needed funds to address the problem of child abuse in Tennessee,” Conte said.

Participants will be asked to donate $35 each and enlist sponsors to pledge donations for each mile walked.

“Those who wish to participate but do not walk may volunteer to staff water and aid stations, arrange for receptions and offer other forms of support for this important initiative,” said Bonnie Beneke, director of the Tennessee child advocacy group. “We hope individuals throughout the state will show their support for this effort, even if they’re not able to walk with us.”

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On the Net:

www.andreawalks.com