Austin and Albert Lea residents will hit the track Saturday morning in the name of newborn health.

The Austin/Albert Lea March for Babies Walk will be held April 14 at Torge’s in Austin. Proceeds benefit the March of Dimes Foundation.

“The work is so incredibly important,” said Peggy Young, chair for the Austin/Albert Lea march. “We’ve all been touched in some way by the work March of Dimes does.”

This year’s goal is to exceed the money raised last year: about $48,000. Those who cannot make the event are still welcome to donate, Young said. The money raised goes directly to March of Dimes.

“It comes back in the form of innovation and research,” Young said. The organization develops therapies and processes to ensure babies are born healthy, and ways to remedy those who are not.

“We help moms have full-term pregnancies and research the problems that threaten the health of babies,” the March of Dimes website mission statement reads.

The path covers a six-mile stretch, including a loop around Mill Pond. Teams can range anywhere from two to 15 walkers. While many walk, others prefer to jog, bike or rollerblade, Young said.

Organizers expect to see between 300 and 400 walkers. This estimate is a bit higher than in previous years, Young said. The story of this year’s ambassador family has garnered some extra attention.

Amber and Chad Myers faced a barrage of complications after their twin boys were born only 25 weeks into pregnancy. According to their ambassador story, the March of Dimes organization helped ensure there were experts at hand and the boys received emergency treatment that led to their survival. The Myers said they will be present at the event.

The walk is outdoors. If the weather doesn’t cooperate on Saturday, Young has a contingency plan.

“Just walk faster,” she laughed. Vans will circulate the course to pick up walkers who wish to return to Torge’s partway through, along with any strollers and animals they may have.

Torge’s will also open its doors to walkers a night before March for Babies. The Friday night even will feature raffles, activities and additional fundraising.

“Folks who don’t have a team put together can still get energized about it and contribute,” Young said.

Walkers can meet inside at Torge’s at 8 a.m. Saturday for registration. The walk itself begins at 9 a.m., and walkers typically finish between 10 and 11 a.m., depending on speed, Young said. A free breakfast will be served before the walk, and a free lunch will follow, she said. Drawings for prizes and activities for children are also planned.

“We can’t thank Torge’s enough for sponsoring the event,” Young said. Torge’s has sponsored the walk in the past and contributes both time and food to the cause, she said.

Teams can register in advance at march forbabies.org, or can sign up the day of the walk. Those who cannot attend but wish to make an absentee donation may contact Young at 507-438-4758.