The Reggie Awards, our playful nod to “registration” excellence, celebrates event organizers who create extraordinary experiences within the athleteReg community. Each month, these passionate individuals share their stories, strategies, and the magic that makes their events uniquely special.
This month’s winner embodies the true spirit of community and gratitude. Bianca Walker, Director of Development at the Amherst Survival Center, has turned Hike for Hunger into a movement that nourishes both bodies and hearts. Using RunReg and PledgeReg, she’s made it easy for the community to rally together and raise vital funds to fight food insecurity.
Event Overview:
Event Director: Bianca Walker
Organization: Amherst Survival Center
Event Name: Hike for Hunger
Event Registration Site: runreg.com/hikeforhunger
Fundraising Page: pledgereg.com/hike-for-hunger
Event Website: amherstsurvival.org
How many years have you been organizing this event? 0, I just started 2 months ago and this was my experience managing an event for the Amherst Survival Center.
How many participants attended your most recent event? We had over 170 registered participants.
Tell us about Hike for Hunger in 3–4 sentences:The Hike for Hunger is the Amherst Survival Center’s annual community event that raises awareness and vital funds to fight food insecurity across Amherst and Hampshire County. Participants come together to walk local trails, celebrate community spirit, and support neighbors in need. Every step taken helps ensure that everyone has access to healthy food, care, and connection year-round.
Community at the Core
Hike for Hunger is not just about getting outside; it is about coming together to make sure no neighbor goes hungry. How do you inspire your community to participate year after year?
“We inspire participation by connecting the hike to the heart of our mission—ensuring that everyone in our community has enough to eat. Through personal stories, photos, and opportunities to give or volunteer, we remind people that every stride taken supports real families. It’s the shared purpose and joy of making a difference that keeps our hikers returning each fall.”
Fundraising with Heart
You use both RunReg and PledgeReg to power registration and fundraising, and your team recently surpassed your $35,000 goal. Congratulations! What makes that combination work so well for your event?
“We love the combination of RunReg and PledgeReg because it helps turn a great community event into a powerful movement for good. RunReg keeps the logistics smooth and participant-friendly, and PledgeReg brings our mission to life—allowing hikers to share their personal stories and inspire others to give. That partnership between participation and purpose is what fuels our success.”
Building Momentum
Each year, more people get involved and the impact keeps growing. How do you keep that excitement alive throughout the month-long event?
“It’s all about keeping people engaged and appreciated. We post regular updates, thank participants publicly, highlight top teams, and show the tangible difference their efforts make. When our community can see the impact of every step and every dollar, their enthusiasm naturally builds throughout the month.”
Lessons Learned
What advice would you give other event directors who want to use their races or rides as a way to give back to their communities?
“My advice is to weave purpose into every part of your event. Choose a cause that truly resonates with your participants and make it visible—from registration to post-event celebration. Share impact updates often, thank people publicly, and show them that their time and energy matter. When you align your event with a clear mission, people don’t just show up—they show up with heart.“
Just for fun
What’s the signature element or tradition that makes your event uniquely yours? (The thing participants rave about year after year!)
“For many, it’s all about earning that annual Hike for Hunger T-shirt — and knowing that, at the same time, their efforts helped feed thousands of neighbors right here in our community.”
Join the Movement
Hike for Hunger is proof that every step can make a difference.
Sign up to join the Hike for Hunger and hit the trails this October.
Donate directly to the Amherst Survival Center to help ensure every neighbor has access to healthy food.
Create your fundraiser today on PledgeReg.com and turn your next event into an opportunity to give back.