St. Joseph the Worker hosts 22nd annual Hike for the Homeless fundraiser

Proceeds help individuals experiencing homelessness or hardship find self-sufficiency through quality employment

At 8 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, St. Joseph the Worker will kick off the 22nd annual Hike for the Homeless fundraiser at McDowell Mountain Regional Park in Fountain Hills.

For over 30 years, SJW’s sole mission has been to assist economically deprived individuals become self-sufficient with the support needed to secure quality employment.

Proceeds from the hike will directly fund this mission. In fiscal year 18-19, Hike for the Homeless helped put nearly 3,681 people experiencing economic hardship back to work, according to a press release.

Brent Downs, SJW executive director, says the organization gives people a hand-up, not a hand-out.

“St. Joseph the Worker is 100 percent community funded, which means our success depends on the generous support from the community. By supporting this event, you’re empowering individuals who are experiencing homelessness or hardship to become self-sufficient through quality employment allowing them to turn their lives around and be something great.”

Registered hikers will have the option between a 1.5-mile or 4.5-mile hike and will receive a trendy Hike for the Homeless bandanna. In addition, attendees will be treated to free breakfast burritos from San Tan Brewing Company.

SJW is the conduit to connect job seekers to jobs, building on existing strengths and reducing or eliminating any barriers to employment. Their proven employment model provides one-on-one support, computer and internet access, professional clothing, resume development, mock interviews, financial coaching, certification and licensure fees, tools, safety equipment, and the transportation needed to obtain and sustain employment.

For more information or to register for the hike, visit sjwjobs.org.