Published July 13, 2021 | For over 20 years, the Walk for PKD has thrived as the PKDF’s signature fundraising and public awareness event. Last year, the COVID-19 pandemic meant changing the Walk for PKD from an in-person event to virtual. We couldn’t be more thrilled with how our community embraced this change. Like last year, the 2021 Walk for PKD will be a 10-day, virtual event. Whether this is your fifth Walk or your first, here’s a quick list of frequently asked questions from our community.

Where do 2021 Walk for PKD donations go?

When you join the Walk for PKD, 100% of donations go to PKD research. The Walk has raised over $33 million over two decades. Recently, dollars raised for research have gone toward:  

• Funding 19 researchers through $2.87 million in grants in 2020 
• Supporting the expansion of the ADPKD Registry 
• Expanding our leadership role in the Polycystic Kidney Disease Outcomes Consortium (PKDOC) 

This year, our goal is to raise $1 million for PKD research during the 2021 Walk for PKD.

What can participants expect from the 2021 Walk for PKD?

You can expect an event page for your local Walk for PKD. Here, participants will register, fundraise, and track their personal, team, and local Walk progress. The event will kick off with a virtual event on August 11 to rally our community. The “10 Days, 1 Goal” Walk for PKD will take place from October 8-17. To find your local Walk, visit walkforpkd.org.

Can I have a Walk for PKD team with people in multiple cities?

Definitely! One of the perks of having a virtual environment for the 2021 Walk for PKD is that you and your teammates can walk from anywhere. Last year, one Walk team had 135 family members and friends participate from various cities around the country. Stay tuned to hear more about their story on the blog later this summer!

How does fundraising for the event support the Foundation’s vision to #endPKD?

The PKDF’s vision is to fund research, advocate for patients, and build communities for all affected by PKD. By joining the Walk, 100% of your fundraising will support PKD research. Beyond raising donations, you’ll be part of a greater community that’s working toward the same goal.

I have a local business, can I sponsor the Walk for PKD?

Yes! Beyond walking, your local business can make a difference by sponsoring the event. Sponsorship information and the benefits of sponsorship are listed here. If you have questions, we’re happy to assist you—just email us.

I’m a first-time Walker, how do I get people interested in donating?

First, create a team and ask friends and family to join it. Share your story and a photo on your fundraising page so your teammates and donors know why PKD is important to you. Keep everyone updated by posting fundraising progress. This helps your team and donors understand how they’re making a difference for you and others affected by PKD.

To find a Walk for PKD event near you, visit walkforpkd.org and register today. Let friends, family, and coworkers know about your commitment to ending PKD by tagging photos and comments with the hashtags #WalkforPKD and #endPKD on social media. Even though we can’t be together in person this year, each of us can still raise money for essential PKD research.