People gather to take Steps of Hope

St. Vincent de Paul event draws more than 400 participants

WARREN -- Helping others can be fun.

That was the lesson of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Northeast Ohio District tried to convey at its fifth annual Steps of Hope Walk Saturday at Perkins Park. More than 400 people signed up to take one lap around the park's soccer and baseball field.

In addition to the walk, there was a basket raffle, 50/50 drawing, information booths about organizations whose missions align with the nonprofit, DJ Tom Angelo and a free lunch from Arby's and McDonald's.

There also was an addition to the 2026 walk.

"This year's event includes a new family-friendly kids and family fun run, complete with confetti (as they crossed the finish line) and first, second and third-place medals for the top finishers," said Melinda Hilton, St. Vincent de Paul Northeast Ohio fundraising and events manager.

The children in the fun run led the walk.

"The young participants will take the first steps before the larger group of walkers begins the Steps of Hope Walk," Hilton said.

The event was originally called Friends of the Poor Walk, but changed to a more positive connotation in 2022.

"The walk was renamed to better reflect the mission and values of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Northeast Ohio. While the previous name was familiar, we felt that 'Friends of the Poor Walk/Run' did not reflect the dignity and respect we strive to show every person we serve. 'Steps of Hope Walk/Run' more positively represents our commitment to walking alongside our neighbors in need and helping bring hope to our community," Hilton said.

Warren Mayor Doug Franklin, who is a member of SVdP Northeast Ohio's advisory board, thanked all of the people involved with the event from SVdP Executive Director Darlene Jones and her staff to the volunteers and participants in the race.

He reminded the people there about the importance of the fundraiser.

"Every step you take today as we walk around this track and every dollar raised goes right back in our community to help someone in our community get back on their feet," Franklin said.

In her remarks Jones gave thanks to the participants in all aspects of the event, including collaborating partners.

"All of you make what we do every day possible," she said.

Before the walk began, the Rev. Edward Stafford of St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish gave the opening prayer.

The event was family oriented with participants spanning multiple generations.

Kathy Lepro of Warren has been involved in all five of the walks. Her family came from Cleveland to participate. Lepro's grandchildren, James McCarthy, 8, and his sister, Lillian, 6, won medals in the fun run.

"This is the first time I heard of this event. We showed up to do something together as a family," said Michael Luzier of Newton Falls.

His brother, Ryan Roosa, 9, of Newton Falls, came in second place for the 10 and under fun run category. Roosa's mom and younger brother also participated in the walk.

As the walkers prepared to line up at the start line, Franklin said, "You don't need to break any speed records today, whether you're walking, running or just strolling with a cup of coffee. What matters is that we're doing all of this for our community."

Lepro added, "It is a fun way to raise money, bring the community together to interact with each other and learn what the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Northeast Ohio does."