AUGUSTA — A labor of love and service at St. Michael School will return next week after shifting to become a virtual event last year because of the pandemic.

The annual St. Michael School and Travis Mills Walk-athon will be held inside and outside the school on Wednesday, May 19. In 2020, an exercise challenge was held in its place, with students and staff participating from home.

This year, the school community, which has enjoyed in-person learning all year, will participate in the walk-athon in person as well, raising money for the Travis Mills Foundation through pre-obtained pledges.

“This fundraiser is so important, not only to support our community and our foundation, but it teaches our kids about the military service men and women who are supporting our country every single day,” said Jaime Schorr, a co-chairwoman of the walk-athon.

“I can’t wait to be there to celebrate with you guys,” Mills said in a video to students and staff.

Mills, a retired United States Army Staff Sergeant of the 82nd Airborne, is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was wounded by an improvised explosive device during his third tour in Afghanistan in 2012. During his recovery, Mills discovered a passion for inspiring fellow wounded servicemen and women. He founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit and assist wounded and injured veterans and their families. He has traveled around the country as a motivational speaker, inspiring thousands to overcome life’s challenges and defy odds. In 2015, his book, “Tough as They Come,” was published.

To learn how to help the cause or for more information about the event, call the school office at 207-623-3491.