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02/21/25 - The American Red Cross-NMI Chapter has organized the last of its signature events—the annual Red Cross Walkathon and Club 200, according to ARC-NMI Chapter executive director John Hirsh.
“After careful consideration, we have decided to shift our focus away from this event and explore new fundraising approaches that will allow us to make the biggest impact here in the CNMI while keeping expenses low. We understand the disappointment this may cause throughout our community, as the [Red Cross] Walkathon has not only been a vital fundraiser for our humanitarian efforts for the past 35 years, but also a beloved event that has brought our families together on Saipan, Rota, and Tinian,” he said in an email to Marianas Press.
Hirsh also confirmed that aside from the Red Cross Walkathon, the local chapter also decided to scrap its Club 200 event—a night where the local community gets to dress up according to the yearly theme—Halloween, Rock ‘n Roll, the Wild Wild West, Under the Sea, Latino Night, among others.
“We are moving away from special event as an organization so there will not be a Club 200 in the fall. Even though our events here have a long history of success and community involvement, we do operate as ‘One Red Cross’ and need to be in alignment with our national directives. We hope to continue to do all kinds of outreach in the community through programs in the schools and disaster preparedness. Donors will still be able to support our local work through financial gifts to the NMI chapter...just not directly connected to a special event,” he said.
Hirsh said despite scrapping the Red Cross Walkathon, the local chapter of the international humanitarian movement will still sponsor fundraising events.
“Please know that we are committed to ensuring that the generosity of volunteers and financial donors continue to make a meaningful impact are exploring alternative ways to raise funds to support our humanitarian mission. We will keep you updated on these initiatives and welcome any suggestions or ideas you may have.”
Hirsh also clarified that there is no local or national political connection whatsoever related to this change.
“Like all businesses and non-profits, the Red Cross—at the national and local level—is always evaluating its return on investments and risk. Any type of special event by any organization carries a certain level of risk…will people show up or buy tickets? will the weather be good? Will companies donate? What if someone gets hurt? Organizationally we are trying to reduce that risk by scaling back our special events nationwide including the Red Cross Walkathon and Club 200,” he said.
Mt. Carmel School principal Filmah Buenaflor said the Chalan Kanoa catholic school is disheartened by the cancelation of the twin events.
“We’re saddened to hear about the cancellation of the American Red Cross Walkathon. We know how much effort goes into organizing meaningful events and the impact they have on CNMI constituents, especially those who need assistance. We truly appreciate all the hard work ARC has put in. Mount Carmel School will always be supportive of the American Red Cross's future initiatives in any capacity moving forward.”
Saipan Community School principal Amanda Dunn echoed Buenaflor’s sentiments and said the loss of the Red Cross Walkathon and Club 200 also has hit her family on a personal level.
“Our family has many fond memories from the Red Cross fundraising events over the years. What has made them even more meaningful was that they weren’t just good times, but they also served a greater purpose. As we all experienced firsthand the invaluable help provided during the typhoon recovery, making our support for the Red Cross even more important,” she said.
Dunn and her husband won the Club 200 best costume contest five or six times.
Saipan International School headmaster Dr. Ron Snyder also laments ARC-CNMI Chapter’s decision to cancel their two signature events.
“It's a shame that an event that is so powerful locally fell prey to national concerns. While I understand that the Walkathon no longer made sense nationally on a fiscal level, I am disappointed that the cancellation was universal,” he said.
Grace Christian Academy principal Susan Pajarillaga said their school will continue to support the ARC-CNMI Chapter despite the demise of the Red Cross Walkathon.
“It has been an honor to partner with the American Red Cross for many years. Our students and families have always shown great support for the Walkhaton. We look forward to other opportunities to raise funds for the American Red Cross.”
Transpacific Group of Companies, a major sponsor of the Red Cross Walkathon, said despite the Red Cross Walkathon making its final bow, it will continue to support the ARC-CNMI Chapter in its next fundraiser endeavors.
"The Transpacific Group of Companies have been long-time supporters of the American Red Cross and we appreciate the work they do for our community. We will continue to support their fundraising efforts any way we can," said Marcos Fong, CEO of Transpacific Group of Companies, which comprises Coca-Cola Beverage Co. (Micronesia), Inc., Subway Investments Corp., and Foremost Foods, Inc.
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Story by Mark Rabago
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