It all started in the mind of native West Virginian Jake Harrington and it has come full circle back to the Mountain State right here in Bridgeport.  For the second year in a row, the Nuru Bucket Walk will take place during the Benedum Festival on July 12 at 10:30, with registration beginning at 9:00.  The walk is a simulation that draws attention to the nearly two billion people around the world who live in extreme poverty. 

 

Harrington, who is a decorated U.S. Marine, saw first-hand the devastation brought about by poverty.  After traveling the world, he noticed a common thread among many of the developing countries and decided to dedicate his life to reducing poverty.  While at Stanford University, Harrington developed a plan of action that aims to eliminate extreme poverty during our lifetime, which in turn, Harrington says, will reduce terrorism and other issues that go along with poverty.  His model is designed to be the first self-sustaining, self-scaling, integrated development model to end extreme poverty.  Nuru means “light” and Harrington’s plan is to shine a light on the issue and use a multi-faceted approach which includes agriculture, education, healthcare and economic development.

 

The GFWC Bridgeport Junior Woman’s Club has chosen Nuru International as one of the charities for the year.  In their inaugural year last summer, they raised over $1000 for the cause and hope to blow that away this year by involving more families, groups and individuals who will join the fight against poverty.  Particpants of the Bucket Walk will trek one mile with five-gallon buckets balanced on their heads to simulate the many women and children who have to walk long distances daily in order to get water for their family.  In many cases, children are unable to attend school because they are spending so much time collecting water, and often the water is contaminated. 

 

Co-Presidents of the Bridgeport Juniors, Krista Arnold and Sarah Dodson, spearheaded the event last year and are eager to increase awareness and participation this year.  The walk will begin at the Bridgeport City Park, circle around the schools and end back at the park.  All buckets were donated by Home Depot and registration can be on site at 9:00 or in advance by going to http://www.active.com/bridgeport-wv/walking/races/walk-for-water-2014?int=

Registration is $20, which includes a shirt for those who register in advance and $40 for families.  All proceeds will go to Nuru International.