The Kim Atkins' Walk of Angels may have a new route this year, but the motivation and reasoning behind the people participating in the 8-mile jaunt remains the same.

The walk in honor or memory of any cancer patient will be Saturday, March 3, beginning at 8 a.m., leaving from Olde Town Conyers, and returning to the same spot.

It's the second year for the walk that was started in memory of Kimberly Chance Atkins.

"It was very successful (last year)," Benny Atkins said. "We had about 100 walkers for the first year. This year we're aiming for 300 walkers."

The new route should make it easier, as people can return to their cars right at the finish line, unlike last year when the starting line was at the Georgia International Horse Park and the finish line was at Olde Town. The route will also offer outside participation for those who want to support the walkers.

"We've got a really great route this year," Benny Atkins said. "Throughout all of Olde Town we're encouraging all people who live within the route to participate and put up pink bows and cheer them on."

Last year the event raised $26,000, and helped fund things such as 25 free mammograms to people within the Rockdale community.

"We're spending the money that we raise locally, and it's making a difference," Atkins said.

This year's entry fee requires walkers to raise $300, which can be either donated by the walker or raised through fundraisers, sponsorships or donations.
"If you compare that to other walks, that's very comparable," Atkins said.

All walkers will receive a T-shirt and a goodie bag, along with being eligible for prizes for things such as most money raised, most money raised per team, oldest walker, youngest walker and most determined walker.

"The cause is near and dear to everybody," Atkins said. "Our goal is to make a difference, and so far the foundation has made a difference."