Homeward bound with Kobe and friends

Thousands turned out for last year's HomeWalk, aimed at ending homelessness in L.A.

Los Angeles Laker Kobe Bryant, Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky and about 5,000 others will lace up their sneakers this Saturday for United Way HomeWalk 2011. The event is aimed at ending homelessness in L.A., which has more people living on the streets than any other city in the country.

“HomeWalk is a platform for thousands of Angelenos to present a united front against homelessness,” said Elise Buik, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Los Angeles. “By mobilizing our residents, we can continue to raise the funds and awareness necessary to create pathways out of poverty, getting the homeless off of the streets and into housing.”

Over the past four years, the 5K run/walk has raised $1.7 million and helped more than 9,000 homeless people get housing. With an estimated 51,000 living on L.A.’s streets on any given night, there is plenty of work left to do.

Opening ceremonies for the event begin at 8:30 a.m. with music and a few remarks from Bryant and Buik. The walk itself is from 9 a.m. to 10:15 a.m., setting out from Exposition Park at 700 Exposition Park Drive. Exhibits along the route will teach participants about homeless life and how people can get on the path to permanent housing.

To join the effort, register online individually or with a team for $25, or donate in the name of participants. United Way has tips and tools for fundraising, and T-shirts will be given to all registrants. You can even join “Team Kobe” to help the Lakers’ superstar reach his personal goals.

Posted 11/16/11