Each year some 2,000 communities across the U.S. join in locally organized, interfaith CROP (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty) Walks that help support church service around the world.

The 31st annual Conejo Valley Walk will be Sun., March 7 at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks. Registration begins at noon, and the walk starts at 1 p.m.

The course is six miles through the community and ends back at CLU. An honorary walk through the campus will be available for less able participants.

Walkers will receive envelopes to collect sponsor money for CROP and turn in the envelopes on the day of the walk, rain or shine. Dogs, skates and bikes are not allowed on the walk.

The U.S. Church World Service is a cooperative ministry of 36 Protestant, Orthodox and Anglican denominations which provide sustainable self-help and development, disaster relief and refugee assistance in more than 80 countries.

The walks bring in about $4 million a year. Up to 25 percent of funds raised in each community stays there to support selected charity organizations.

Last year, 700 walkers raised more than $52,000. Of that amount, $13,000 was shared by Manna, Catholic Charities, Conejo Meals on Wheels, Westlake Village Meals on Wheels and Lutheran Social Services.

For more information, call Sherrill Hyink at (805) 492-3674,