On Saturday, October 26^th, Prime Time for Women will host the 5^th Annual Grandma Gatewood Legacy Hike (GGLH) and Birthday Bash Fundraiser! This year we are extending the invitation to anyone who is inspired by the remarkable story of Emma “Grandma” Gatewood…and honestly, who wouldn’t be! This event, which is a really fun way to connect and exercise with others in the beautiful outdoors, raises funds that makes it possible for Prime Time for Women to offer FREE programs that foster healthy aging and improved community health.

Because we believe “We are stronger, happier, and healthier together,” every year Prime Time for Women donates a portion of the proceeds from this fundraiser to another organization that supports women.   In the past this event has benefited Breast Cancer Awareness of Cumberland Valley, CASA, Be The Match and The Women’s Club. This year’s Grandma Gatewood Legacy Hike will benefit The Elder Group, a nonprofit committed to ending elder abuse and delivering high-quality services to seniors and displaced persons.

Gatewood, who was born on October 25, 1887 was the first woman to solo thru-hike the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine, in 1955 at the tender young age of 67! Though she was a survivor of horrific domestic violence that left her hospitalized many times and raised eleven children mostly by herself, she never gave up on her dreams. When she was discouraged from hiking the 2,091 miles of the trail, she did it anyway! She was not limited by the perceptions of others. Grandma Gatewood embraced challenges as adventures and pursued possibilities rather than probabilities. It’s no wonder that I jokingly refer to her as the “poster woman” for Prime Time for Women.

There are many ways you can participate in this exciting annual celebration and fundraiser:

1. Register for a hike of your choice! On Saturday, October 26^th , Prime Time for Women will lead three hikes: Gentle, Intermediate and Advanced.  All hikers will gather at Washington Monument State Park parking lot at 10:00 AM. Together we will set off down the trail to literally and figuratively follow in the footsteps of this remarkable and inspiring woman.

• The Gentle Hike is a 1/2 mile out and back walk to the beautiful and historic Washington Monument, built in 1827, which promises beautiful vistas of the valley cloaked in autumnal glory. Generally considered an easy route, with little elevation gain, this is the perfect intergenerational hike suitable for people of every age, from young children to older adults. So, grab your friends, neighbors, fellow church members, adult children and grandchildren and join the fun!

Following the Gentle Hike, participants will have the opportunity to attend “The Grandma Gatewood/Strong Woman Workshop” conducted by Tina Fraley, PTFW Board Member and owner of Power House Studio. Tina will share Gatewood’s story, highlighting this amazing woman’s belief in herself, her ability to overcome incredibly difficult circumstances and her perseverance in realizing her dreams. Tina, who knows that all women face challenges, will share her story of overcoming life’s obstacles, and give workshop participants a chance to share theirs as well.

• The Intermediate Hike will begin at the parking lot at Washington Monument State Park. Along this 2-mile out and back hike, we will stop at the Washington Monument to take in the breathtaking views before continuing down the trail.  Except for a ¼ mile downhill section (which means one uphill section on the way back), this section of the Appalachian Trail is well-maintained, provides sure footing and is made easier by natural step-like features.
• The Advanced Hike, like the Gentle and Intermediate Hikes, will start at the Washington Monument State Park Parking Lot. Together, we will head off down the trail, stop at the Washington Monument Overlook to enjoy the glorious views of the valley below, giving nature lovers a chance to take in the beauty of the natural world.  This 5-mile, out and back hike is trail is relatively flat with some rolling hills and a moderate but gradual elevation change, made easier by natural stair-step features.
• The Virtual Hike: Can’t make it on October 26th? No problem!  You can join us virtually and support two worthy nonprofits. Be sure to share your shirt size and address so PTFW can send you a really cool shirt! Take and send pictures of your hike! We will share them on our website and post them on social media!  

2. Purchase a GGLH Commemorative Shirt

This long sleeve, high performance, moisture wicking shirt will no doubt become your “go to shirt” for all outdoor adventures! Please be sure to include your referred size and your address if you want us to mail it to you.

3. Sponsor a Hiker

Sponsor your favorite hiker and support two worthy nonprofits! The hiker who raises the most will win the coveted Golden Hiking Poles Award!  Your sponsorship will support Prime Time for Women’s mission to foster healthy aging through FREE programs that emphasize positive social connections, lifelong learning and healthy lifestyle activities. This year, Prime Time for Women will share the proceeds from the 5th Annual Grandma Gatewood Legacy Hike(s) with The Elder Group, a nonprofit committed to ending elder abuse and delivering high-quality services to seniors and displaced persons. 

4. Join Us at the 5^th Annual Grandma Gatewood Birthday Bash!

Don’t miss the 5th Annual Grandma Gatewood Birthday Bash at the 19th Hole Restaurant on Saturday, October 26 from 6-8 PM. Celebrate the remarkable legacy of Grandma Gatewood, connect with fellow hikers, share stories of your trail adventures, nibble delicious appetizers prepared by Chef Carolyne Crosby and enjoy music provided by DJ, Jay Heich. And best of all, after we sing Happy Birthday to Grandma Gatewood, delight in the scrumptious birthday cake prepared by Lillian’s Bakehouse…mmm good!

5. Corporate Sponsorship

Business owners that embrace challenges as adventures and want to share in the legacy of possibilities are invited to sponsor the 5^th Grandma Gatewood Legacy Hike and Birthday Bash. Your support will enable PTFW to continue FREE community-based programs (Walking to Wellness, PTFW Book Club and Saturday in the Park) that celebrate and foster healthy aging at every age! Based on scientific research our programs emphasize positive social connections, lifelong learning healthy lifestyles with the goal of increasing health span and improving community health.