Jen Smyers is one of Calvary’s most dedicated volunteers. She spends almost every Monday night at Calvary Women’s Shelter. Why? “I am strongly committed to their model of empowerment and long-term life skills. The women at Calvary are incredibly resilient and motivated to improve their lives.” When it comes to the Walkathon, Jen says, “it’s the least I can do to stand in solidarity with them and help raise money for the amazing, life changing program.”

A defining Walkathon moment for Jen was “two years ago, when a woman who lived at Calvary for a bit and who I had become close friends with walked alongside my friends and me. She shared her story and amazingly optimistic, bright outlook on life, and it became so clear that we were helping so much – not only by walking and raising money for important programs, but by developing meaningful relationships and letting people who are discouraged know we care.”

If you run into Jen on the morning of the walk, ask her for some of her karaoke recommendations around the city –she’s a huge karaoke enthusiast!