Last year’s Walk With Me event raised $21,000; this year’s goal was $30,000.

BOARDMAN — People of all ages — and even a few dogs — showed up bright and early to walk and run in Boardman Park for a good cause.

About 250 to 300 people participated in the fifth annual Easter Seals of Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties Walk With Me event Saturday, to raise money for the organization’s programs.

“They can walk, they can run, and like we like to say, they can roll if they come in their wheelchair,” said Jodi Harmon, Easter Seals development and public relations coordinator. “So we kind of leave it to everybody and you can do whatever you want. Some people just come and enjoy the fellowship and just hang out and have a good time.”

Events included a 1-mile, 3-kilometer or 5-kilometer walk or run. Registration was free and participants who raised at least $25 received a T-shirt. This year’s event also included a spaghetti lunch.

“I’m glad to be able to do it for a good cause,” said Andy Acierno, Youngstown.

His granddaughter benefits from Easter Seals programs, he said, which is why he’s participating this year for the first time. He raised $60 running the 5k.

Last year’s Walk With Me event raised $21,000, Harmon said. This year’s goal was $30,000.

“We use this to raise funds for our programs and services,“ she said.

Read more in Sunday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com