Celebrating 31 Years of Joy: The LifeScape MallWalk Unites Fun and Fundraising!

This promotional event listing is sponsored by LifeScape.

Fundraising events typically possess a limited duration, and the continued success of LifeScape’s MallWalk after 31 years indicates that it holds a unique charm.

The lively music, mascots, cosplayers, cheerleaders, face painting, and balloon animals for children contribute to a celebratory and cheerful atmosphere.

With hundreds of attendees at The Empire Mall every year for MallWalk, many proclaim it resembles a reunion — a yearly gathering of families, individuals supported by LifeScape, staff, and volunteers.

This year’s MallWalk is slated for Feb. 1 at The Empire Mall. It’s an occasion eagerly awaited by participants and volunteers alike.

Tim Neuroth of Stone-Cold Music has volunteered as DJ for 12 years, creating a festive atmosphere.

“I feel truly privileged that LifeScape allows me to participate in Mall Walk,” he expressed. “Witnessing the happiness of the individuals LifeScape assists and their families during the walk is immensely fulfilling.”

The funds are raised by teams that register at LifeScapeMallWalk.org and solicit donations from their friends and family. Others can join the team for $30. Many teams are organized by families of children or adults assisted by LifeScape who understand the importance of the wish list acquisitions.

First PREMIER Bank/PREMIER Bankcard has been a supporter of MallWalk for 14 years.

Sandy Schoenbeck, vice president of trusts and estates at First PREMIER Bank, initiated a MallWalk team with colleagues known as the “PREMIER Walkers.”

“I believe in the vision of LifeScape and the improved quality of life they deliver for so many in need,” remarked Schoenbeck, who also serves on the board of directors for the LifeScape Foundation.

“The influence reaches far and touches countless lives. MallWalk is merely a small way for me to contribute and support them.”

Thanks to the sponsorship from PREMIER and others, every dollar contributed to MallWalk directly supports the Needs & Dreams Wish List at LifeScape. This wish list fund offers products and services not included in the standard budget for children and adults under LifeScape’s care. It enhances the offering of advanced equipment and enriching experiences that establish LifeScape as the regional frontrunner in services for individuals with disabilities and rehabilitation necessities. Last year, LifeScape catered to over 5,000 children and adults from nine different states. Likely, all beneficiaries gained from some aspect of a MallWalk contribution.

The previous year’s event garnered an incredible $103,631. These funds addressed numerous requests across all sectors of LifeScape, encompassing a specialized crib and vital sign monitors for the Children’s Specialty Hospital; rent support for adults; a learning lab program for the Specialty School; experiences at the pool, zoo, sports events, and Butterfly House; therapeutic equipment; household items; and much more.

Recent college graduate Lilian Shari fell in love with MallWalk as a high school student while volunteering with the Helpline Center’s SALSA, or Serve and Learn Student Association. She has returned every year as a pivotal member of the registration team. “I am incredibly thankful for the chance to participate each year,” she stated. “It has turned into one of my cherished traditions!”

For the households, it’s a means to reciprocate for the transformative assistance they’ve discovered at LifeScape. Brad and Ashley Schmidt from Brookings along with their son, Rogan, participated in MallWalk last year with pals. This year, they have established their own team. Three-year-old Rogan receives physical, occupational, and speech therapy weekly at LifeScape Rehabilitation Center due to a rare congenital issue.

“LifeScape is incredible,” Ashley Schmidt shared. “I appreciate it because they set objectives and inquire about our aspirations. They encourage him – not excessively, but they motivate him to achieve advancement.”

The Schmidts are thankful for the specialized therapeutic apparatus supplied by MallWalk contributors. “Without LifeScape, he’d be significantly behind where he is today,” Brad Schmidt remarked.

Pre-registration for MallWalk is available at LifeScapeMallWalk.org, where contributions can also be made. On-site registration commences at 8 a.m. on Feb. 1 at the Sephora/Athleta entrance at The Empire Mall. The walk begins at 9:30 a.m., with the event concluding around 11 a.m.

For inquiries, individuals can reach out to Anna Trosper at LifeScape: 605-444-9806 or [email protected].

LifeScape is profoundly appreciative of everyone who has contributed to the enduring success of this event!