People interested in getting together to raise money, win prizes and enjoy some entertainment at a picnic need look no further.

The Regional Access and Mobilization Project (RAMP) is holding its third annual Wheel-A-Thon this weekend.

The Wheel-A-Thon is a 1.8-mile trek during which participants can walk or use a wheelchair on a course that travels throughout the NIU campus. Afterward, a picnic will be held in the parking lot of Molly’s Eatery and Drinkery, 1022 W. Lincoln Highway, where prizes and awards will be given out.

All people are encouraged to participate in the event, said Melissa Yerk, RAMP services manager. The purpose of the fundraiser is to raise money and awareness for the organization.

DeKalb’s Wheel-A-Thon tradition began three years ago, taking after a similar event in Rockford, where there’s been Wheel-A-Thons for the last 18 years.

One main goal of the event, Yerk said, is to give participants who aren’t disabled a better awareness and perspective on people with disabilities.

“For this year’s event, we hope to have between 150 and 160 participants,” Yerk said.

The group has a goal of raising $20,000, which will go toward providing its services. RAMP’s services include information and referral, advocacy, peer support and independent living skills training for the disabled.

Yerk’s expectations for this year’s Wheel-A-Thon are high.

“We have had a lot of support from the community and the university,” Yerk said. There are a lot of fraternities, sororities, student groups and other organizations lending a hand this year. Local businesses have been good with donations and sponsors for the event.

Money raised for the event came from individual and team efforts.

Prizes will be given out to the people who raise the most money. The prizes will include gift certificates for local businesses for various dollar amounts, depending on the amount of money raised.

The Wheel-A-Thon is open to people of any age and/or disability.

“We anticipate it growing and getting better every year,” Yerk said.