Frequently Asked Questions

What is Global Village Project?
Global Village Project is a nonprofit middle school in Decatur, Georgia dedicated to educating refugee girls from all over the world. To learn more about us, visit www.globalvillageproject.org

What is the Welcome Walk? 
The Welcome Walk is an annual fundraising event for Global Village Project. The walk celebrates our commitment to make our community a refuge, a safe place, for all refugees to learn and thrive in.


Who can register and Walk in the Welcome Walk? 
Everyone! This is a family-friendly and kid-friendly event! The Walk does cost money to put on (t-shirts, signage, vendors, city permits, etc) so we do have a walk registration fee for all participants. This helps cover our event costs so money donated through the event directly supports our mission and students. Children under 6 are free.

Who receives funding from the Welcome Walk?
The Welcome Walk benefits Global Village Project (GVP). GVP is a registered 501c3 nonprofit and the only middle school in the U.S dedicated to serving refugee girls. To learn more about GVP and their programs, visit their website at www.globalvillageproject.org   EIN # 26-4152199


Why should I fundraise for GVP? 
The purpose of GVP's Welcome Walk is not only an event to welcome refugees, but it is a peer-to-peer fundraiser to raise critical funds for GVP to grow its mission and keep the school tuition-free for each student. Fundraising can be daunting, but its much easier than you'd expect with the tools we provide for you! By setting up your fundraising page, and sharing it within your networks, YOU can help us reach our $125,000 fundraising goal. Visit our "Fundraising Tips & Templates" to for fundraising tips and best practices.

How Long is the Walk Route?
The Walk is 5 miles long from Clarkston, GA to Decatur, GA. 

Do I have to walk all 5 miles? What if I just want to do 1/2 a mile or a few miles?
YES, absolutely! GVP's buses will be available all day along the Walk route in case you need assistance, want to just do a portion of the Walk, need a bathroom, or simply want to get to the finish line celebration quickly.

Can my pet join the Walk? 
We kindly ask that you leave your pets at home. While we love our furry friends, we want to ensure that everyone feels comfortable participating. Some guests come from cultures where interactions with dogs may be viewed differently, so our of respect for all participants, we are making this a dog-free event. Dogs also are not allowed on our buses if you require assistance. Thank you for understanding! 

Where should I park my car? Clarkston Market OR GVP. 

Option One: At the Walk Start Line (Clarkston Market; 980 Rowland Street, Clarkston, GA)

Option Two: GVP/ Decatur Presbyterian Church (205 Sycamore Street, Decatur, GA) A bus will be available from GVP to Clarkston Market at 9am sharp. You can find the bus at 9am off Sycamore Street in front of the Church. Please do not be late or you will be left. Carpooling is strongly encouraged. 

Where is the Walk Start Line? 
Clarkston Market (980 Rowland Street, Clarkston, GA)

Where is the Walk Finish Line? 
Global Village Project at Decatur Presbyterian Church (205 Sycamore St., Decatur, 30030)

If parked my car at Clarkston Market and if we end at Global Village Project, how do I get back to my car?
Starting at 12:30 p.m., our two buses will shuttle you with a ride at the end of the walk at GVP back to Clarkston Market.

What Should I Bring?
A welcoming attitude, cash, and credit cards (Coffee will be for sale at Refuge Coffee and at our finish line celebration we will have food and other vendors). Snacks and water along the route will be provided. 

Bus Rides and Bathrooms?
GVP buses will be available for walkers needing assistance. Stay tuned for information on how to contact the bus to pick you up along the route to get to a bathroom or to our finish line celebration. 

What is the end of the Walk Celebration? 
After the Walk ends, join us for an exciting celebration with live musicians, dancers from Moving in the Spirit Dance Company, vendor tables, henna, arts and crafts, food vendors, face painting, and more! 


Have more questions? Please contact Natalie Huyghe, nhuyghe@globalvillageproject.org