The Parkinson's Unity Walk (PUW), a grassroots organization, began in 1994 through the dedicated efforts of patients, families, support groups, and friends affected by Parkinson's disease. Their main goal, which was to raise awareness and funds for research to find a cure for Parkinson's, is still intact today.

From the very beginning, 100% all of the donations raised by walkers and contributors has been and continues to be designated for research. Corporate sponsors and individual research foundations fund the operating expenses of the PUW.

Generous donations of time and service to the Walk have expanded fund-raising and awareness well beyond earlier expectations.

Donations from the Unity Walk have gone to support research for the following major U.S. Parkinson's foundations:  American Parkinson Disease Association, National Parkinson Foundation, Parkinson's Action Network, Parkinson's Disease Foundation, The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, The Parkinson Alliance, and The Parkinson's Institute and Clinical Center.  Six of the seven participating organizations use the dollars they receive to fund specific research studies. The Parkinson's Action Network seeks to maximize federal funding of Parkinson's research through a concerted nationwide advocacy effort.