TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WAWV/WTWO) – The Hamilton Center hosted its eighth annual diversity walk at First Financial Bank.

On the corner of 6th and Ohio people joined in unity to celebrate differences within the community.

CEO of the Hamilton Center Melvin L. Burks believes the walk makes the community a stronger place each year.

“There are people coming from all walks of life, who are embracing diversity, and it is making the community known all over the state,” Burks said.

Burks said the event is also an opportunity to network and potentially hire people who are different from you.

“Just hiring people that are different makes us a very global city,” Burks said.

Participants laughed, danced, and gave piggyback rides during the 1.5 miles walk.

Chief of Community Engagement Lynn Hughes said there’s nothing more heartwarming.

“We went through a period where people were isolated they didn’t have the chance to connect with the people that they know, and they didn’t have the chance to make new connections,” Hughes said. “I think that really impacted a lot of people, so it’s nice to be able to create an event where people can again begin to make those connections.”

Following the walk, the community gathered for some food and fellowship.

Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Shannon Jackson said the Hamilton Center hopes for a greater turnout each year.

“The Diversity Walk Committee is made up of staff members from Hamilton Center, and other great great great community partners that are working together for one common goal,” Jackson said.