Wasatch Immigration Project, the Park City-based nonprofit that provides critical pro bono legal services to community members navigating the immigration system, will hold its first 1-mile charity walk, called Walk with WIP, at 9 a.m. on June 13. Registration is now open at tinyurl.com/wfks x359.   “With the recent surge in ICE operations in the Wasatch Back, it is a scary time for many individuals and families who are trying to navigate the immigration system,” said Maggie AbuHaidar, executive director for Wasatch Immigration Project and one of the firm’s volunteer attorneys. The nonprofit said its recent client survey shows that almost 80% of its clients are changing their daily habits.  “They are not driving, not going to the grocery store, the doctor, or their children’s school activities,” explained Evelyn Cervantes, director of community engagement. “Fear is making our clients, who are already vulnerable, even more so.”   AbuHaidar said the good news that the Park City community is concerned and has been contacting the organization looking for ways to help. Wasatch Immigration Project trains volunteer attorneys to provide pro bono legal services and provides free materials and educational workshops to community members and businesses. In response to community demand, they recently held a “Know your Rights” briefing and workshop for allies that drew 47 people. “Although we do not lobby or organize marches,” AbuHaidar explained. “We felt like the community needed an opportunity to stand up in support of their friends and neighbors. So we worked with the City to organize Walk with WIP. We hope Park City will show up, like they always do — and that those who are  frightened right now will see that our community values them.”   Advance registration for Walk with WIP is required and will be limited to the first 100  participants. Participants can register at tinyurl.com/wfksx359. The cost is $5 per individual walker or $20 per family.  Participants will check in at the Top of Main Brew Pub parking lot between 8:30 and 9 a.m. The walk will start at 9. The route begins at the top of Main Street, travels down to Poison Creek Trail and finishes at Library Field. The safe, easy route will be limited to sidewalks and trails and consists of a gentle downhill from start to finish. It should be appropriate for families and people of all age levels. Dogs on leashes are welcome.  Wasatch Immigration Project said it encourages attendees to bring a sign to carry or arrive early to make one. Materials and sample signs will be available, as well as help from alumni of Kimball Art Center’s Young  Artist Academy. But, the nonprofit cautioned, please keep signs family-friendly. “This event is intended to be positive vibes only — showing our vulnerable community members  that we see and support them,” explained Leslie Wellauer, volunteer and Walk with WIP committee member. “There are so many clever things you can say on your signs, but please try to promote love and inclusion.”  If Walk with WIP sells out, those interested in supporting WIP and the local immigrant  community will be encouraged to join the Finish Party at Library Field, where there will be food, drinks by Lucky Ones Coffee, music, and information from the organization’s nonprofit partners.  “We want this to be an event that builds community and highlights (Wasatch Immigration Project), but we also want to celebrate the nonprofit partners that are working so hard to support our clients — individuals and families who are being negatively impacted by recent changes to immigration policy and enforcement priorities,” said AbuHaidar. The post Wasatch Immigration Project to hold 1-mile charity walk to build community appeared first on Park Record. ...read more read less