Loveland Walk-A-Thon Brings Students Together While Supporting Our Schools

All photos provided by Jana Hambley

Students at Loveland’s lower-grade schools will be lacing up their shoes this fall for an event that combines exercise, school spirit and fundraising.

The annual LEPTA Walk-A-Thon is the largest fundraiser of the Loveland Elementary Parent Teacher Association and brings together students from Loveland Early Childhood Center (LECC), Loveland Primary School (LPS) and Loveland Elementary School (LES).

Jackie Campbell, owner of Loveland Jazzercise, is one of the event’s sponsors and is also supporting this year’s Walk-A-Thon. For Campbell, the event is an opportunity to support students while encouraging physical activity and community involvement. The Walk-A-Thon is designed as a school-wide event. Students walk a designated loop at their school while participating in a day focused on movement, teamwork and school community.

Students are also encouraged to raise money by seeking sponsorships from family members, neighbors and members of the community. Some students find creative ways to earn those sponsorships, including doing chores, walking a dog or helping with household tasks.

But the fundraiser isn't only about how much money students raise.

Every student participates in the Walk-A-Thon, whether or not they personally raise funds. The day also includes music from a local DJ, a photo station and popsicles for students after their walk.

Where the money goes

The Walk-A-Thon is LEPTA's most impactful annual fundraiser, with proceeds going directly toward programs and activities that benefit students.

Funds help pay for school field trips, including trips to the Cincinnati Zoo, Cincinnati Museum Center and Newport Aquarium. Money raised also supports special educational days at the schools, including the kindergarten STEM-focused ROY G. BIV Day, where students explore the science behind rainbows.

The funds also help teachers with classroom needs through scholarships for enrichment supplies and activities.

For the 2026 Walk-A-Thon, LEPTA has set a fundraising goal of $55,000.

Campbell's sponsorship through Loveland Jazzercise is part of the broader support the event receives from local businesses and the community.

Two Walk-A-Thon dates

The Walk-A-Thon takes place on different days for the participating schools.

Students at Loveland Primary School and Loveland Elementary School will participate Friday, September 25, while the Loveland Early Childhood Center Walk-A-Thon is scheduled for October 8.

Families and community members interested in supporting the fundraiser can sponsor a student they know. Businesses can also provide corporate sponsorships.

More information about supporting the Walk-A-Thon is available through the Loveland Elementary PTA website.