BOWIE, Md. - The Bowie State football team continues to make its presence felt in the community as the Bulldogs volunteered at the Bowie Town Center for the 2023 Multiple Sclerosis  (MS) Walk on Saturday, Apr. 29. 
 
"Our student athletes have done a remarkable job being visible by going out into the community to provide service and lending helping hands while participating in many community service events this off season," said Defensive Coordinator Avery Williams. "We would like to thank Amy Stock, MS Walk Volunteer Engagement Specialist and MS Walk: Bowie Event Volunteer Specialist Ellen Hannibal for their invitation to participate and hospitality during the event.  We look forward to participating again next year."
 
The goal of the MS Walk was to raise $45,000, however a total of $54,754 in funds was raised that will go towards research and finding a cure for the debilitating disease of multiple sclerosis. Walk MS is the largest gathering in the MS movement. In fact, the Walk MS community has raised over $1 billion to fuel the National Multiple Sclerosis Society's mission to cure MS while empowering people affected by MS to live their best lives. While there are many ways to Walk MS – from in-person events to designing your own event-day experience – all routes lead to a world free of MS. With the motto of "No one has to face MS alone", Walk MS brings communities together to cure MS for every single person—as fast as possible.  
 
"I really enjoyed my Saturday volunteering at the Walk MS event," freshman quarterback Khalif Welch said. "It was a real eye opening experience overall, watching people who were currently battling multiple sclerosis be embraced as they crossed the finish line was extremely rewarding."

While volunteering, the Bulldogs served in many roles which included, assisting staff set up equipment prior to the event, registering participants, providing snacks and water to participants, route support, cheering at the finish line, and aiding in the event clean up after the concluded. 

"I am happy that I had the chance to support those that suffer from having multiple sclerosis," added freshman linebacker Davon Telp, Jr. "It was a great experience for me! This was my first time participating in a community service event and I learned Saturday, that taking a little time out of your day to give back or just helping someone in general is as rewarding to you as it is for the recipient."

"Participating in community service gives me the opportunity to experience more of what life can be outside of school and sports," said freshman defensive lineman, Dalan Johnson. "It gives me a chance to meet new people and helps keep me humble about life in general."

"Volunteering in the Walk MS event was amazing, I really enjoy engaging in events that bring everyone together for a common cause," said freshman offensive lineman Darrell Jones.

The event was the fourth community service initiative for the Bulldogs this spring.

For the most up-to-date information on Bowie State Athletics and its 13 varsity sport teams, visit bsubulldogs.com.