Suomi-Koti Walkathon hits milestone
The annual Ralph Weverman Memorial Walkathon is marking its 20th walk next month.
The walkathon raises money for Suomi-Koti, the Finnish seniors home at 795 Eglinton Ave. E. It is to take place Oct. 15 at 10 a.m.
The annual event began in 1996 when resident Onni Piiponen made a request for a fundraiser for the nursing home. In 2007 it was renamed for longtime volunteer Ralph Weverman after he died. His wife Liisa continues to volunteer with Suomi-Koti. Liisa, along with Urpo Wallin, Lisa Anttila and Lee Veikkamo have been volunteering with the walkathon since its inception.
A statement from the Suomi-Koti Toronto Nursing Home Family Council said most of the money raised at the annual walkathon is used within the year to improve quality of life for residents beyond medical care. This includes social events like Mothers’ Day, Christmas, and bus outings.
“We try to uplift the spirits of our residents by making their lives and surroundings as comfortable as possible,” the Family Council wrote.
The home recently began funding a music therapy program designed to help residents’ cognitive, physical and social needs.
The walk includes a luncheon that will serve salads and coffee as well as Finnish fare karjalanpiirakka and täytekakku. Registrants will also receive certificates for the Walkathon. Registration is $15 per person, $10 for seniors and students, while children under 12 are free.
