SPRINGFIELD – There is still plenty of time for teams and individual participants to begin their fundraising efforts for the 23rd annual Rays of Hope –  Walk and Run Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer, which steps off in Springfield on Oct. 30.

This year’s annual walk and run are presented by Health New England.

Using the simple and convenient  registration at www.baystatehealth.org/raysofhope, participants can create their own personal webpage to assist them in their fundraising efforts. Participants must raise at least $50 to receive the collectible Rays of Hope T-shirt and anyone who raises $1,000 or more online will become a Rays of Hope BIG Wig. The special designation carries with it added benefits, including a Rays of Hope BIG Wig t-shirt proclaiming their huge fundraising skills, swag bag and more.

“If you have not already started your fundraising efforts, it’s time to make your move. For those who find it difficult to ask people for money – remember why we do this. The worst someone can say is no and then you smile and move on,” said Midje Theulen, new Rays of Hope chair.

“As a breast cancer survivor, it is heartwarming to know there are so many women, men and children who feel the same way about the Rays of Hope as I do. Through your selfless devotion to this well-recognized and respected organization we are waging our own local battle against breast cancer,” she added.

As in past years, the event begins at Temple Beth El on Dickinson Street with a two- or five-mile route for the walk along with the 8K run. Registration for the run begins at 7:30 a.m., while registration for the walk begins at 9 a.m. Parking is located at various lots nearby with buses shuttling participants to Temple Beth El for the walk. Buses start running at 8:30 a.m. for walkers.  Parking information can be found on the Rays of Hope website.

The seventh annual Run Toward the Cure 8K is timed by Accu Spec and will start at 8:30 a.m. to accommodate the growing number of participants. Parking for runners is only at the Lenox (formerly American Saw) lot in East Longmeadow at 301 Chestnut St. Buses start running at 7:30 a.m. for runners.

Large tents, pink balloons, music, colorful flags and a festive, hopeful atmosphere will welcome participants at this year’s annual Rays of Hope. Breast cancer survivors will have their own special place to gather in the warm and comforting Pink Hope Lounge decorated by McClelland’s Florist, where they will be welcomed with special gifts, followed by the 2016 survivors’ photo at 10 a.m.

Local businesses, services, and breast cancer-related programs will offer a variety of information and giveaways under the event’s large exhibitor tent. The Rays of Hope Store will also be selling merchandise, including new Rays of Hope apparel for women and men, water bottles, small backpacks and more.

For more information about this year’s Rays of Hope Walk and 8K Run, taking place rain or shine, call 794-8001 or visit baystatehealth.org/raysofhope.