FARMINGTON — Local hiker and outdoor writer Doug Dunlap, of Farmington, has set a goal of walking 1,000 miles in Franklin County to encourage everyone to get outside and also to raise money for the United Way.
Dunlap will walk an average of just less than 143 miles a month for seven months and will finish his journey on Sept. 30.
Dunlap wants to encourage county residents and visitors to appreciate the magnificent forest, foothill, mountain and waterway terrain in what he considers some of the most beautiful outdoor country in eastern North America. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many families and individuals have discovered walking, which offers good exercise, long views, clean air, opportunity to see Maine wildlife – and a welcome break from stress. The new paddling season provides yet more opportunity to enjoy Franklin County outdoors.
His second mission is to call attention to the efforts of United Way and United Way partner agencies tha serve Franklin County’s most vulnerable residents. From parents of infants and toddlers, to the most senior citizens, and hundreds of people in between, the agencies provide access to food, clothing, shelter, health, mental health, addiction and domestic violence-related services; and links to support for those experiencing fear or isolation.
Follow Doug’s journey on United Way’s Facebook and Instagram pages and website. Postings will include towns, public lands, and points of interest visited, mileage, wildlife sightings and other nature observations.
Individuals, families, groups, businesses, and others are encouraged to paddle or walk their own miles and donate based on how far they go. Those doing their own walking and paddling are encouraged to submit their progress and observations to the United Way of the Tri-Valley at any time by emailing info@uwtva.org or by posting to the Franklin County Foot and Paddle event on the United Way’s Facebook page. The community wants to hear from you! (It is not necessary for donations to be gathered to participate – though contributions are welcome from participating families.)
Dunlap welcomes donations to the United Way at a penny per mile (for a total of $10); five cents per mile (for a total of $50); 10 cents per mile (for a total of $100); 25 cents per mile (for a total of $250).
He is following all COVID-19 protective measures that apply at the time of a walk, including social distancing, hand washing, masking, remaining home if ill and limiting group size. Independent walkers and paddlers are encouraged to do the same.
For more information, visit www.uwtva.org. [1]
PHOTO: Doug Dunlapp with Webb Lake in the background. Dunlap is walking 1,000 miles in Franklin County between now and September to promote getting outside as well as the United Way. (Submitted photo)
