For more information, contact Megan ODowd (517) 474-1230 Megan.m.odowd@wmich.

edu FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Annual March for Babies Fundraiser to Take Place in Portage May 2014 PORTAGE, Mich., March 1, 2014 -- The Portage chapter of the March of Dimes will host its annual March for Babies fundraiser walk on May 3 at the Celery Flats Historical Site in Portage. Registration begins at 9 a.m. with the walk beginning at 10 a.m. This is the foundation's biggest fundraiser of the year, with the local goal being $75,000.

There is no registration fee, said Dana DeLuca, division director of the March of Dimes. It is encouraged however, that teams set goals and to reach out to others through social media, friends, and family.

Every year, March of Dimes chooses a local family to be the Ambassadors for the local chapter. Local Ambassador Families share their story in their community in an effort to gain support and awareness. This year the local ambassador is a young boy named Aiden along with the help of his parents.

I was born 12 weeks early and only weighed 3 pounds, said Aiden. Today I am 6 years old and I love to play soccer, baseball and gymnastics. MORE

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The March for Babies will provide a memorable and rewarding day for the whole family. In addition to the walk there will be live music, refreshments throughout the day, craft booths and many other attractions.

Even if you are not on a registered team, we invite you to come walk, said Deluca There are plenty of opportunities for day-of-event exposure, activation and education - not to mention opportunities to meet hundreds of others who are just like you!

The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. It has greatly helped mothers and babies with the research, vaccines, and breakthroughs. To find more information and set up a team go to marchforbabies.org or go to the local Portage chapter located at 1930 W Milham Ave, Portage, MI 49024.

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