Members of the Cynthia Perry Ray Foundation (CPRF), an outreach of the Gardena Valley & Vicinity Ministers’ Wives & Ministers’ Widows Sisterhood Connection, united with local congregations to participate in the “Walk to Cure Arthritis” at Exposition Park on May 14.
Designating their team as “The Butterfly Queens,” CPRF joined the effort to support the Arthritis Foundation’s mission of conquering arthritis by spreading awareness and raising money for research to find a cure.
“The Walk to Cure Arthritis is a great way to experience the power of standing together, giving back to the community, help increase awareness of this disease in our communities and be supportive of an organization that is committed to doing what it can to battle this debilitating disease,” said Dr. Kathye Jenkins, CPRF founder and president.
Last month, CPRF hosted 59 teens during their 6th Annual Awards Musical Luncheon in keeping with their 2016 theme, “Investing in Our Future.” The teens were treated to a formal lunch, given backpacks full of items and provided health and wellness resource materials from several health organizations.
The guest speaker, Ms. RaChion Richardson, was a 17-year-old high school student with lupus who shared her struggles and triumphs with this disease in her day-to-day life. She is a member of the Arthritis Foundation’s Camp Esperanza and is a Teen Leader Camper.
“RaChion captivated the entire audience, especially the teens, with her remarks and when she concluded, we all stretched our hands towards her in prayer, asking God for improvement in her health and studies,” said Jenkins.
She added that more children suffer from juvenile rheumatoid arthritis than those with juvenile diabetes, cystic fibrosis, cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy combined and CPRF will dedicate the next year to educating young people on the importance of applying health and wellness in their lives.
The CPRF/Sisterhood Connection welcomes new members and volunteers interested in working with youth and young adults. To learn more, call (310) 531-8942 or email [email protected].
