More than 250 walkers, runners and cyclists helped raise nearly $110,000 for Open Sky Community Services during the nonprofit’s 41st annual Valley Friendship Tour, continuing a fundraising tradition that has supported behavioral health and human services programs across Central Massachusetts for more than four decades.
The June 6 event began and ended at Alternatives’ Whitin Mill and featured a one-mile walk, 5K run or walk, and a 30-mile bicycle ride through the Blackstone Valley. Participants of all ages and abilities also gathered for an afternoon of live music, raffles and other activities.
The Valley Friendship Tour serves as Open Sky’s signature fundraiser, benefiting the Worcester-based nonprofit’s nearly 150 programs that support children, adults and families facing mental health challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, brain injuries, homelessness and other complex needs.
Since its inception 41 years ago, the event has raised millions of dollars for the organization, according to Open Sky.
“The Valley Friendship Tour is a visual representation of Open Sky’s mission—individuals of all abilities coming together in the community with purpose,” Open Sky President and CEO Ken Bates said in the announcement. “We are grateful to this community that has been created over the past four decades and for its unwavering support of our neighbors throughout Central Massachusetts facing complex challenges. Thank you to our participants, attendees, sponsors, and staff for making this year’s Tour another one to remember.”
Among this year’s participants, Teresa Pitaro of Norwood was recognized as the event’s top fundraiser for the fifth consecutive year, raising nearly $7,000.
Open Sky Community Services, based in Worcester, has provided behavioral health and human services for more than 50 years. The organization employs more than 1,300 people, operates nearly 150 programs across Central Massachusetts and serves more than 8,000 individuals annually, according to the nonprofit.
