POTSDAM, N.Y.—On Saturday, Sept. 10, the SUNY Potsdam men’s basketball team participated in the Walkin' for Willz 5K Walk/Run to Cure Juvenile Diabetes.

For the second year in a row, the Bears walked from Ives Park to the Clarkson University Campus other local teams and community members. The funds raised by the walk went to support the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF).

“This is the second year we have been involved with the Walk for Willz fundraiser,” said Bears Head Coach Sherry Dobbs. “I believe it is very important that our players learn the value of community involvement and how their actions can affect others.  Juvenile diabetes affects so many people in the North Country and the United States.  We are proud to be part of this amazing day of awareness."

The Walkin’ for Willz event is named in honor of Billy “Willz” Howlett, who in 2008 lost his battle against diabetes at the age of 20. The 5k walk/run has raised over $70,000 since its inception for the Central New York chapter of the JDRF.  Last year’s event raised over $18,000.