It is not to late to partake in the Austin/Albert Lea March for Babies this weekend.

Registration and kick-off ceremonies begin at 8 a.m. Saturday at Torge’s Live. The 6.5 mile walk will be underway at 9 a.m, and there is also a shorter two-mile course available.

The walk is a fundraiser for the March of Dimes, an organization that works to give babies a fighting chance against threats to their health such as premature birth, birth defects and low birth weight.

Funds raised support March of Dimes’ research and programs that help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies in Southeast Minnesota.

“We raised about $40,000 last year, and it’d be nice to top that this year,” said March of Dimes committee member Randy Kramer.

A minimum pledge of $25 is accepted from participants at registration, but they are welcome to donate more.

“Last year we had 240 participants, and we expect a similar number this year,” Kramer said. “We appreciate everyone’s participation and generosity to this cause.”

There will be restrooms and water available during the walk.

Torge’s Live and the Holiday Inn will provide lunch afterwards; breakfast will be provided by WalMart.

People can sign up to participate up until the day of the event online at www.marchofdimes.com or by calling 507-282-0649.

To send a donation without participating in the walk, drop of a check to the March of Dimes at Torge’s Saturday morning, or mail it to Accentra Credit Union in care of Nate Finney.

March for Babies

When: Saturday

Starting Point: Torge’s Live

1701 Fourth St. NW

Time: 8 a.m., registration,

9 a.m., walk

Walk Distance: 6 1/2 miles

Optional Short Course: 2 miles