The annual Choc Walk at the park returned to Disneyland® Resort Sunday morning, where thousands of people gathered to raise funds for Orange County Children’s Hospital (Choc) to celebrate hope, healing and happiness.
“This walk was really filled with that,” said Jade Young, Ambassador of Disneyland Resort. “We had special guests. We had fun friends who the guests and walkers took pictures of. There was fun music. We could see the balloons. We were cheering for them. It was a great time.”
The beloved event began before dawn, wrapping around three miles of both Disneyland and Disney Adventure Parks, ending in downtown Disney district.
“Like you said, the last pedestrian is just finished,” Young said KTLA’s Erin Myers live on the KTLA 5 Morning News. “I was able to be there on the starting line with my fellow Disney Ambassador Raul. We were able to cheer on the pedestrians at the finish line, so the energy was so high and full of smiles.
Young said she had attended Choco Walk before, but this year’s event was particularly meaningful in her role as ambassador. “I was actually on a personal journey at Choc Walk. I had a friend whose siblings were part of Choc Hospital when I was in elementary school, and when I became a member of the cast, I walked and supported it.
Choc and Disneyland’s relationship dates back decades. “Walt Disney himself was able to stand on the original board,” Young explained. “So we are very grateful. After these few years, we were able to continue the relationship by visiting the hospital with our fun friends through Choc Walk.
Since it was founded more than 30 years ago, Choc In The Park has raised over $46 million. Revenue supports pediatric programs, research and services throughout the Choc’s Health System, including Behavioral Health Care, school-based mental health spaces, and direct assistance for families of hospitalized children.
If you miss a walk, it’s never too late to make a difference. Donations are still accepted online.
“It’s all about the community,” Myers said from the finish line. “You can help with research and education. That’s what we are today.”
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