This year’s TREK event — held annually to support St. Joseph Peace Mission for Children — has been canceled. Donations can still be made to support the operations of the St. Joseph Peace Mission Emergency Shelter, Yewell Home for Boys, and Hayden Home for Girls.
A release from the Board of Directors posted to the St. Joseph Peace Mission Facebook page on Thursday reads, in part:
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the cancellation of our annual TREK event fundraiser, scheduled for June 15, 2024.
After careful consideration and assessment of the current circumstances, including unforeseen road construction on the routes, we have made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s event. This decision was not made lightly, but we believe it is the most responsible course of action to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants and attendees.
We understand that many of you were eagerly anticipating the event, and we share in your disappointment. However, we are committed to finding alternative ways to continue our fundraising efforts and support of our cause.
We are exploring various options for virtual or alternative fundraising activities and will keep you updated on any developments. In the meantime, we encourage you to continue supporting our organization through donations, spreading awareness about our mission, and volunteering your time and talents.
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and continued support during this challenging time.
The Board of Directors said anyone still interested in donating can do so online at stjosephpeacemission.com or by mail at: TREK Fundraiser, P.O. Box 1048, Owensboro, KY 42302.
The TREK event was originally founded by David Yewell, who began walking the 13-mile distance alone to celebrate and give thanks for another year of good health. After a few years of doing it on his own, Yewell was joined by friends and family, and it was soon turned into a benefit for a deserving charity — St. Joseph Peace Mission.
The family-friendly event took place in Calhoun for 22 years before the organization decided to change course and hold it in the City of Owensboro.
All funds raised support the operations of the St. Joseph Peace Mission Emergency Shelter, Yewell Home for Boys, and Hayden Home for Girls. Each home provides mental health treatments, case management, individual and group therapy, nutrition education, social skill development, relationship building, daily living skills and academic guidance.
