Durga Tree International, a collaborative nonprofit organization founded three years ago to end modern slavery worldwide, will hold its third annual five-mile Lacing Up for Freedom Walk-a-thon, on Saturday, May 21, at the Ridgewood Wild Duck Pond, rain or shine. Since the majority of people Durga Tree serves are vulnerable minors and their mothers, this year’s theme is “Walking to End Child Trafficking.” Registration is complimentary for all, including leashed canine companions. Prizes are awarded to walkers who reach tiered fundraising goals. There will be children’s activities, a live music duo and sponsored beverages/breakfast snacks and lunch following the walk.

This year, Durga Tree is proud to partner with Alleva Construction, its water station sponsor for the second year in a row; Rise Fitness, its backpack prize sponsor; and Antonella Romano Stone & Tile, its reusable water bottle prize sponsor.

Co-created by Beth and Tim Tiger and Jess Hoertel, Durga Tree International has raised over $300,000 in three years to aid in the war against modern slavery, partnering with grassroots organizations around the world actively working to end this epidemic. The group’s mission is to “take the homework out of becoming involved in this movement by qualifying hardworking, worthy organizations from around the world, and then becoming the fundraising vehicle they so desperately need.” Additional Durga Tree International events are planned for 2016, including volunteer immersion trips to Guatemala and India and the fourth annual benefit gala in October.

To register, visit Wizathon.com/lacing-up-for-freedom/index.php. For more information on the gala as well as other events and opportunities, visit Durgatreeinternational.org. Connect at [email protected] or by calling 973-461-6621