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Owens Physical Therapist Assistant students host Monster Walk to benefit Timothy’s Perrysburg Foundation

Owens Physical Therapist Assistant students Megan Minnich, Miriam Bower and Olivia Smith helped organize the Monster Walk, which will benefit Timothy’s Perrysburg Foundation.

During their first semester of classes as Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) students at Owens Community College, PTA instructor Cathy Hauptman’s students learn about the importance of giving back to the community.

After more than a year of planning, the current second year cohort will host its community outreach event, a Monster Walk on Thursday, October 29. Proceeds will benefit Timothy’s Perrysburg Foundation’s Clothesline program, which provides clothing for individuals in need.

“It’s a very important role for the PTA, and it’s something we talk about in the classroom,” Hauptman said. “The idea of doing this solidifies that value, especially as they go out in practice. Our hope is they will have that vision of doing something in the community in their careers.”

Owens PTA instructor Cathy Hauptman

The event will take place on a pre-planned half-mile loop outside of the Healthcare Education Center, allowing individuals to walk at their own pace any time between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Participants will register with a QR code that also gives them an opportunity to donate.

According to Miriam Bower, the class president of the 2027 cohort, the walk not only encourages physical activity from the participants but raises awareness for people in need.

“Everybody has a heart for those in need, especially with the winter months coming,” Bower said. “Being future PTAs, we can see the benefits of people needing shoes, especially kids, and the benefit that proper footwear has. We’re excited to raise awareness for that and get some donations.”

Bower said the Monster Walk title is a play on the time of year as well as a common exercise in physical therapy. Planning for the event started in spring 2025, and while it’s been a lot of work, Bower said it’s been a valuable experience.

“It’ll all be worth it and a lot of fun,” Bower said. “The opportunity to raise money for Timothy’s Perrysburg Foundation, all the hours put into this will be worth it.”

Hauptman admitted that even though the scale of the event surprised her, she’s excited for the different view of humanity that it’s given her students.

“I love that they wanted to do this,” Hauptman said.

Learn more about the Monster Walk at owens.edu.