Stewart’s Caring Place Celebrates 20-Year Anniversary of “Hope Walk”
Akron, OH (March 4, 2025) – Stewart’s Caring Place is excited to announce the 20-year anniversary celebration of the Hope Walk on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with Dietra Goggins serving as honorary chair.
This inspiring community event has brought together families, friends, and supporters to walk in solidarity with those impacted by cancer in Akron for 20 years.
“The Hope Walk embodies the spirit of our community and serves as a reminder that no one has to walk alone on their cancer journey,” said Sarah Vojtek, president and CEO of Stewart’s Caring Place. “We’re grateful for the continued support from our community over the last 20 years that has enabled us to walk alongside those facing cancer.”
The Hope Walk is both a fundraiser and a celebration of hope, resilience, and the unwavering support that individuals and families navigating a cancer journey can find at Stewart’s Caring Place. To add to the excitement, the Hope Walk will be held on the same morning in two locations: at Stewart’s Caring Place in Fairlawn and at Sippo Lake Park in Canton.
“It’s awesome when the community comes together for a great cause,” said Dietra Goggins, a police officer with Metro RTA Transit Police Department, and an advocate in Akron for many years. “When those affected by cancer see all the smiling faces and support, it reminds them they are not alone. It’s like a big group hug.”
From the left, Dietra Goggins, Mimi Surloff, and Sarah Vojtek.
To register, form your Hope Walk team, become a sponsor, or make a donation, visit stewartscaringplace.org/events/hope-walk.
Registration options include an Individual Walker package for $25, which provides participants with an anniversary t-shirt (while supplies last) and access to all event activities. For those unable to attend in person, the Virtual Walker option is available for $15, allowing supporters to pledge to walk 2 miles on their own while contributing to the cause remotely.
Stewart’s Caring Place invites businesses and individuals to join in the 20-year anniversary celebration through various sponsorship opportunities. Sponsors can benefit from event recognition, including tickets and event signage, enhancing their visibility within the community. To explore sponsorship options, please contact Sarah Vojtek at 330-836-1772 or via email at svojtek@stewartscaringplace.org.
Funds raised from the Hope Walk directly support the free programs and services Stewart’s Caring Place offers to individuals and families affected by cancer, including support groups, counseling, wellness programs, and educational resources.
Participants of all ages are encouraged to join us for a morning walk to unify, remember, and encourage those on their cancer journey. “We want to uplift those who are fighting cancer and the survivors,” said Dietra. “For those who are feeling fear and exhaustion, both physical and mental, Stewart’s Caring Place is here for them.”
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
- Two Locations:
- Stewart’s Caring Place: Thomas and Lisa Mandel Cancer Wellness Center
3501 Ridge Park Drive, Fairlawn, OH 44333
- Time:
- 8:00 AM: Sunrise Yoga
- 9:00 AM: Check-in
- 10:00 AM: Welcome Announcements
- 10:20 AM: Walk Begins
- 11:30 AM: Walk Concludes
- 12:00 PM: Event Concludes
- 8:00 AM: Sunrise Yoga
- Sippo Lake Park: 5300 Tyner St., Canton, OH 44708
- Time:
- 8:00 AM: Check-in
- 8:20 AM: Welcome Announcements
- 8:30 AM: Walk Begins
- 9:30 AM: Walk Concludes
- 10:00 AM: Event Concludes
- Time:
- Activity stations, entertainment, food trucks, and more will be available for the duration of the event.
For event updates and more information, visit stewartscaringplace.org/events/hope-walk.
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All services and programs at Stewart’s Caring Place: Cancer Wellness Centers are available to individuals diagnosed with cancer, along with their partners or spouses, parents, children, siblings, caregivers, friends, and loved ones. Founded in memory of Dr. Stewart Surloff, Stewart’s Caring Place offers free support to residents living in Northeast Ohio and beyond. With locations in Fairlawn and Canton, its team strives to be an exemplary resource for needed cancer support services while providing a comforting environment and being a sustainable community-based organization. For more information, visit www.stewartscaringplace.org or call (330-836-1772) to learn more or to set up a tour.