St. Ann School, in Emmaus, held its ninth annual walkathon Sept. 27 to raise funds for student activities.

The theme for this year's event was "Soaring to New Heights" submitted by fourth graders Tierna Moore and Allison Carr.

Participants in the walkathon wore T-shirts with a design created by eighth grade student Danalyn Roncolato.

The walkathon is the school's biggest and most important fundraiser of the year, said Emily Moore, the school's director of advancement.

"This year's goal is $35,000 and to date, we have raised about $32,000," Moore said on the morning of the event.

"Business donations are sought in the months leading up to the event and community support has been wonderful," Moore said. "Additionally, our students and their families reach out to family and friends near and far to seek donations.

"Approximately 70 percent of the money raised for this event comes from our students' efforts. Students are provided with a host of incentives as they continue their fundraising efforts," Moore said.

Raffles for the walkathon included gift cards from local eateries and stores. The top three student fundraisers were awarded: a limousine ride from school; an e-reader; and Carmike movie tickets; Red Robin and Fuzziwigs Candy Shop gift cards, and, the top two classes who have raised the most money will receive a pizza party.

The day began with a student body Mass at 9 a.m. followed by a school photo and the walk to the Rodale track at South Tenth and Furnace streets in Emmaus.

Allentown Central Catholic High School Vikette Kiki Sirett led middle school students on their walk. Joined by their teachers, parents and grandparents, students walked a designated distance in recognition of donations received.

After returning to the school, a family picnic was held with multiple activities and a variety of picnic food, including a hot dog lunch donated by Potts' Hot Dogs. This year's highlights included activities with Lehigh Valley Martial Arts, a session with a Hawk Mountain Sanctuary raptor educator, a DJ, face painting and arts and crafts. The Red Robin and Menchie's mascots also visited. Rita's Italian Ice was donated as an after-lunch dessert.

The day concluded with students gathering in the gymnasium to hear the names of the final prize winners.