United Negro College Fund celebrates 30th Annual Milwaukee Walk for Education

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- More than 2,000 people gathered at Veterans Park Saturday morning, July 19th, for the United Negro College Fund's 30th Annual Milwaukee Walk for Education. Just one day can make an impact for generations to come, and FOX6 will show you how.

Each stride helps a minority student get one step ahead toward their educational goals.

"We generate funds and support for our 37 members UNCF colleges and universities," says Jann Honore, United Negro College Fund.

With money raised through the support of community members and corporations like Johnson Controls, the United Negro College Fund awards more than 10,000 scholarships and internships a year to low and moderate income students.

"This year we raised $80,000, we had 500 employees and families to participate," says Mary Dowell, Johnson Controls.

The bigger the turnout, the greater the payoff. Past funds help pay this young man's tuition.

"One day I got a phone call saying you`ve been recommended for a scholarship," explains Ammon Lyles, UNCF recipient.

Lyles says receiving money for his education changed his life.

"It was just such a humbling experience and I`m blessed and honored to be part of the UNCF scholarship program," says Lyles.

Lyles' mother worked hard but could not afford his education, because of UNCF, he is now a sophomore succeeding at Howard University.

"I got 4.0 for both my two semesters there. I`m an active leader on campus and really, what I do with my time is, I inspire youth to look at opportunities for financing their future and looking at ways they can make their dream a reality," says Lyles.

Not only will these students inspire others, but their new-found opportunities are also investments in the future.

"Education is important for so many people because if you are the first in your family to attend college, you can make a difference in your family for generations to come," says Honore. "We also know that the support we get from the corporations is really about building, developing, and educating workforce."

More than $250,000 dollars was raised Saturday morning.

CLICK HERE to find out how you can donate or for more information on the scholarship program.