Paying It Forward - Blesie Tree Walk

2017 Walk

A rainbow arching over the pavilion was a sure sign we were going to have a great walk on a beautiful September day. Love was all around as people gathered to show support for local cancer patients and raise money for the Blesie Tree Foundation.

We thank each and every one of you for your participation - those who walked, those who spoke, those who donated and those who gave as sponsors. Our special guests were Jana and Kevin Dibel, who spoke in honor of their son Jake. They shared lessons from his life and inspired us all to appreciate the gifts of each new day.

See a clip from the Dibel's talk

Learn about Jake Dibel's life and legacy.

The Blesie Family

Amy Blesie, who provided the inspiration for the Blesie Tree, participated with family and friends. Amy and her sons, Ethan and Carson, continue to model the spirit of paying it forward to others.

The Blesie Tree Foundation

The Blesie Tree Foundation was formed to pay kindness forward to cancer patients. Every year, the Foundation provides support for everyday needs, such as groceries and utility bills, and meaningful extras, such as gift certificates for a massage.

If you would like to contribute to the Blesie Tree, please contact us. We invite you to participate in future walks and help support this great cause!

2016 Walk

Our 2016 walk took place on September 10th at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids. Families and friends came together on a beautiful day to contribute to our mission of perpetual giving. Pictures from the event appear at the bottom of this post.

Food and Fun

As always, we enjoyed fresh food and breakfast beverages. Z102.9 kicked off the walk and helped us keep the beat. Many people participated in our silent auction and our special prize drawings, which included:

First prize:
- "Night on the Town" package containing four front row tickets to the Holiday Spectacular at the Paramount Theatre
- $150 gift certificate to Cobble Hill Restaurant
- $100 Visa gift card
Second prize:
- $250 gift certificate to the New Pioneer Co-op
Third prize:
- Fitbit Charge activity tracker ($100 value)

Thanks to all who contributed items for the auction and prize drawing. Your support makes all of this possible.