Rally Round for Children's Wisconsin
At Every Turn > Giving and Fundraising > Get Ready to Rally Round for Children’s Wisconsin: A New Chapter in a Beloved Tradition
News Mar 05, 2025

Get Ready to Rally Round for Children’s Wisconsin: A New Chapter in a Beloved Tradition

Meg Brzyski Nelson, President 4 minute read

For 45 years, our community laced up their sneakers, gathered with loved ones and joined us for Al's Run & Walk for Children's Wisconsin. We shared stories, celebrated triumphs and remembered those children who inspired us every step of the way. It was more than just a run and walk. It was a tradition woven into the fabric of Milwaukee, a powerful testament to the love and support this community has for our kids.

And what an incredible legacy it leaves! Millions of dollars raised, countless lives touched and a resounding echo of hope that reverberated throughout our state. 

That’s Why We’re Excited to Introduce You to the Next Chapter: Rally Round for Children’s Wisconsin!

We know how much our Al's Run & Walk event meant to you. Coming together each year felt like family. The energy, the passion, the shared commitment to our mission  it was palpable. We knew we couldn't let that spirit fade. We knew we needed to reignite it, to create something even bigger with something for everyone. and more inclusive.

Rally Round for Children's Wisconsin is more than just a new name. It's a renewed promise. A promise to continue the legacy of Al's Run & Walk while creating an experience that resonates with a new generation of supporters. We're building on the foundation you helped create, embracing the heart of what made Al's Run & Walk so special, and adding fresh energy and excitement.

Think of Rally Round as a ginormous family reunion with a whole lot of new activities, entertainment and ways to get involved. It’s a party, a pep rally. It’s the can’t-miss, gotta-be-there community event with kids, teens and families at the center of the celebration. 

We're talking about a celebration of everything Children's Wisconsin stands for – hope, healing and a vibrant community spirit.  a vibrant tapestry of hope, healing and community spirit. In other words, it’s one-of-a-kind fun for a one-of-a-kind cause. 

What can you expect?

  • The same heart and purpose: We're keeping the core values that made Al's Run & Walk so meaningful. This is still about coming together to support the vital work of Children's Wisconsin.

  • New experiences, new energy: We're adding exciting new elements to engage all ages and interests. Think interactive experiences, inspiring stories and opportunities to connect with families who have benefited from the care provided by Children's Wisconsin. 

  • A celebration of our kids: At the heart of it all, this is about the children. Rally Round for Children's Wisconsin will shine a spotlight on their resilience, their strength and their bright futures.

  • Everybody is invited: You do not need to be a parent or a patient family to attend Rally Round for Children’s Wisconsin. This is a pep rally for everybody that wants to join us in celebrating kids and Children’s Wisconsin.

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How Does Your Support Help?

Every dollar raised at Rally Round for Children's Wisconsin directly supports the vital work we do at Children's Wisconsin. Your generosity helps us:

  • Provide exceptional care: From routine checkups to complex surgeries, your support ensures that every child receives the highest quality care, regardless of their family's ability to pay.

  • Advance groundbreaking research: Donations help fund critical research that leads to new treatments and cures for childhood illnesses, giving kids a healthier tomorrow.

  • Expand vital programs and services: Your support allows us to reach more families with essential programs like mental and behavioral health services, child advocacy and community outreach initiatives.

Join Us as We Rally Round for Kids! 

We know change can be bittersweet. But We truly believe Rally Round for Children's Wisconsin is the perfect way to honor the legacy of Al's Run & Walk while creating an even brighter future for the children we serve.

You’re Invited. Get Excited! 

We invite you to be a part of this exciting new chapter. Join us Sept. 13, 2025, at the Milwaukee Mile at State Fair Park in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Early-bird discounts are available. Learn more and get your tickets now at: childrenswi.org/rallyround.

Children's Wisconsin Resources

Meg Brzyski Nelson Meg Brzyski Nelson President Children’s Wisconsin Foundation
When you support Children’s Wisconsin — whether through direct donations, event participation, fundraising or volunteerism — you are supporting critical and preventive care programs that make a difference in the lives of kids and families. View more articles from Meg Brzyski Nelson

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