In 1993, 15-year-old PJ St Martin received the news that his brain tumor had returned. PJ became self-conscious and depressed during his medical treatment cycle. Then there came an opportunity for PJ and his sister to attend Camp CARE. PJ returned from Camp CARE with new friends and experiences.

PJ soon learned some children did not attend camp due to funding and space limitations. Thus, the first walkathon started in 1994 to fulfil PJ’s wish that any child who desired could attend Camp CARE.

In 2005, the Camp CARE board renamed the event to the PJ St. Martin and Zack Dobbins Memorial Walkathon in memory of Zack Dobbins a former camper, counselor, Assistant Director and Board member.

The PJ St. Martin and Zack Dobbins Memorial Walkathon grew into a 5K race. Participants can still walk in honor of the original walkathon.