The Thirteenth Fairbanks Visitor Industry Walk for Charity was held on Friday, May 8, 2015. Families, friends, and community groups gathered to walk and eat to support local non-profits. The 607 walkers raised money for 47 registered local non-profits. The grand total of $19,688 is the second highest amount raised in the history of the event. All proceeds will be distributed to the designated 501 (c)(3)charities.

Since 2001, the Fairbanks-area Walk for Charity events have raised more than $315,000 for as many as 60 local non-profits. The annual event is coordinated by Explore Fairbanks and the Fairbanks Chapter of the Alaska Travel Industry Association.

“The final tally is exciting,” said committee member Kathy Hedges. “The amount of money raised and the number of participating walkers are indicators of the wonderful support charities have in our community.” 

The visitor industry is Alaska's second largest industry, employing more than 30,000 people. Travel businesses large and small are intimately involved in their communities, supporting local charities with financial contributions, auction items, door prizes, volunteers, and more.