This September, game for a good cause and transform the steps you take into money for charity! Step up your efforts to catch ’em all by joining Steptember, the fund-raising campaign organised by Cerebral Palsy Alliance Singapore (CPAS) to raise funds to support people with cerebral palsy and bring about positive impact in their lives.

The health and fitness initiative challenges participants to take 10,000 steps a day for 28 days straight in September, starting from September 1, 2016. In teams of four or fewer, participants motivate one another to reach their fitness goals while getting their family and friends to show their support by donating to them or their teams.

All funds raised will allow CPAS to provide much-needed services, support, and care for many children and adults living with cerebral palsy and related disabilities. It will also be used to defray the cost of transport, programme fees, therapy rehabilitation equipment, medical expenses, diapers, food rations, public education, and caregiver support programmes.

Participants are encouraged to add their own fun twist into Steptember. Other forms of exercise, such as swimming, basketball, will also count to their daily ‘step count’. With the recent wide-spread interest in Pokemon Go, participants can also consider the option of contributing to a good cause while playing the game, as Pokemon Go requires a fair bit of walking.

29-year-old Marilyn Loo, a second year participant, is looking forward to this year’s campaign.

“I’ve signed up for the challenge and I can’t wait to get started! Last year’s challenge was tough, but fun. I enjoyed walking with my family to achieve our goal of taking 10,000 steps a day. This year’s challenge should be extra fun as we can walk and play Pokemon Go at the same time! I’m proud to step forward to help empower those with cerebral palsy,” said Marilyn.

Ms Jessie Holmberg, Executive Director of Cerebral Palsy Alliance Singapore, added “The children and adults with cerebral palsy face difficulties with movement and posture – something that we tend to take for granted. Taking 10,000 steps a day is no easy feat and we hope that through the exercise, people will be able to lead healthier lives while making a positive difference in the lives of others. There is so much more that can be done to help these individuals achieve their fullest potential and lead dignified and fulfilled lives. Every small step taken goes a long way.”

How to participate:

1. Get a team of 4 together and register online to begin your journey.

2. From 1 September you can track your daily step count on your very own pedometer (which is provided) and record your steps via the website or your smartphone.

3. The aim is for each team member to take 10,000 steps every day for 28 days during the month of September.

4. Make every step count by asking your friends, colleagues and family members to sponsor you by making an online donation or you could even hold your own mini fundraiser.

Registration is now open. Participants are encouraged to register before 26 August 2016 to receive their pedometer by 1 September 2016.

For more information, please visit www.steptember.sg If you want to try out other fun ways to earn money, here are some fundraising ideas to check out!