by Richard Carlson, Chairman of The Open Door
On Sunday, October 11, 2015 at 2:00 PM the Ninth Annual Janet M Carlson Walk for Hunger was held at the Museum of the Albemarle in Elizabeth City. Approximately 500 walkers from all 15 counties that are under the auspices of the Food Bank of the Albemarle participated in the 4.1 mile walk. The event included children’s activities such as Tug of War, Face Painting, Corn Hole Boards, various games, cooking demonstrations, et al. Tours were also available in the Museum of the Albemarle, which is normally closed on Sunday.
This year supporters and volunteers from The Open Door walked in honor of Brenda Hoepfner, an Open Door volunteer and supporter who died in a tragic accident on Labor Day. Open Door and our community were blessed with Brenda’s enthusiastic support and desire to help those in need. We were humbled and honored when Brenda’s family designated The Open Door to receive memorial donations. Approximately $5,000 has been donated to our food pantry in her memory. This is truly a testimony of Brenda’s impact on others and in our community. These generous donations allow us the privilege of continuing to serve those in need in Perquimans County and continue Brenda’s desire to help others. At the Annual Walk for Hunger Brenda’s husband, John, and some of her close friends walked in her honor.
This year’s Champions of the Challenge are the Bosher’s Point/Greenwood Team. The total proceeds for the walk this year is $11,865 with Bosher’s Point & Greenwood donating $3,595. A Champions Breakfast reward will be provided to this team at the home of Program Director of The Open Door, Rosemary Smith. Second Place is, Belmont, Broomfield, Beech Point, Woodburn & Oakland with $1300 and Third Place went to Quaker Meadows/Woodside with $1275.
Donations from Albemarle Planation residents over the past eleven years totals $111,971. Thank you Albemarle Plantation residents! As a public tribute, the AP Flag Circle has a brick at the beginning of the walk (on the right) with this inscription:
Thank You
Albemarle Plantation
The Open Door
The Open Door is blessed with the support of numerous churches and organizations including the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, the Baptist Church, Hertford United Methodist, the Rotary Club, numerous smaller churches, the Society of Saint Andrews Gleaning Team, and dozens of individuals.
Since its inception 35 years ago, The Open Door has suffered ups and downs. In 2001 it was about to close but a group of Plantation residents revitalized its mission. These people worked hard to sustain its goals and keep it from closing. Because Janet M. Carlson was a key person in this effort, Rosemary Smith chose to honor Janet by naming the Walk for Hunger in her memory.
Words do not adequately express the sincere appreciation that The Open Door has for each of you for your support and dedication. You have make it possible for The Open Door to continue its mission of providing for those in need in our community.