SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Bridges, one of the largest non-profit organizations in Saratoga County devoted to providing services and programs to people with developmental disabilities, is inviting the Saratoga community to join them in a walk, run or roll at their 22nd Annual Great Pumpkin Challenge held on Saturday, October 15 at 9:30 a.m. After two years of being virtual due to the pandemic, the popular 5K & 10K and Kids Fun Run will start and finish at the Columbia Pavilion in the Saratoga Spa State Park and is NET Chip timed. The fundraiser benefits Saratoga Bridges’ essential non-funded or underfunded services like art programs and covers the cost of materials for the unanticipated expenses incurred by COVID 19.
Walking this weekend will be step-sisters Shannon Fernett and Heather Williams. Shannon and Heather are a part of the Saratoga Bridges’ “Bridges Buddies” program. The “Buddies” program helps those with disabilities to better enjoy life through help with transportation, programs and activities like arts and crafts, karaoke, bingo, and of course- as the case with Shannon and Heather - walking! Shannon has been Heather’s personal assistant for over three years now and has been with Saratoga Bridges for 15 years, starting her career in 2007. Their connection through Saratoga Bridges has only strengthened their bond, “Buddies ‘til the end. We are always together,” said Shannon, the younger of the sisters. When asked about their relationship with one another and the “Buddies” program, Shannon said, “Just the term ‘buddies’ really describes what we do, we help them just as much as they help us. It’s a teamwork thing.”
This weekend, their team work will be on full display as Shannon will push Heather along the 5k course and eventually to the finish line at the Columbia Pavillion. In the past two years, the Pumpkin Challenge has been virtual due to the pandemic, so the two sisters are excited to finally partake in the in-person event on Saturday. “As long as the weather is on our side - we are out walking” said Shannon.
Individuals, friends, families, coworkers and corporate teams can register at saratogabridges.org. The $25 entrance fee for the 5K & 10K is $25 and Kids Fun (12 and under) is $10. The first 1,500 registered will receive a long-sleeve moisture wicking shirt. Prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd placed males and females in each age group. There will be give-a-ways, homemade refreshments, donated food and beverages from Hixny, Uncommon Grounds, Bimbo Bakeries USA, Hannaford, DeVoe’s Rainbow Orchard and Healthy Living as well as favorite pumpkin and costume contests. For more information about the event, contact Kelly Armer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 518-587-0723 ext. 1266 or Laura Kenny at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 518-587-0723 ext. 1242.
