Oprah's Big Give

As part of Oprah's Big Give, Fort Wayne Trails was given $10,000 to try and turn it into much more. The Fort Wayne area met the challenge and turned it into over $1,000,000, and the celebration was held today at Headwaters Park. Our running group was a part of the celebration, by being at both the Indian Trails location in the morning and at Headwaters Park in the afternoon.

L-R: Terry, Kevin, Me, Barb, and Monique

In the morning, a member of our running group - Barb - was interviewed by the Oprah filming crew. They were present at Headwaters Park, too, where over 3000 people joined in the fun. A local band played, prizes were given, a belly dancing troupe performed, kids got their faces painted, and there was food and other freebies handed out by various organizations that had table displays set up.



Indiana News Center's Mary Collins emceed the event, which included Mayor Tom Henry speaking and issuing a proclamation for the day. But the real crowd pleasers were Indianapolis Colts Coach Tony Dungy and several of the Colts players, including Bob Sanders.

Even though the day was ugly weather-wise, with temperatures in the 30s and rain then snow, the turnout was great and spirits high.


The events here in Fort Wayne will be highlighted on Oprah's Big Give on Sunday, April 20th, at 8:00 p.m. on local ABC affiliate, WPTA-TV Channel 21. (Note the NEW TIME.)