An organizational meeting to prepare for the 2007 Vineyard CROP Walk for world hunger will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 10, at Grace Church on Woodlawn avenue in Vineyard Haven.

Monday’s meeting is when this year’s recruiters will gather to prepare for the 17th annual 10-kilometer walk, scheduled this year for Sunday, Oct. 21.

Over the years, the Vineyard CROP Walk has raised nearly $220,000 to support the efforts of Church World Service to alleviate hunger and poverty internationally. The secret of the event’s success, according to the Rev. Alden Besse, coordinating chairman for the Island, has always been a dedicated core of recruiters who spread the word and enlist walkers.

By tradition, 25 per cent of the proceeds from every Vineyard walk stays right at home, supporting the Island Food Pantry. Last year, that amounted to more than $5,000 to help feed some 600 needy Vineyard families.

Monday’s meeting likely will last about an hour. More information is available by calling 508-693-3930.