When it comes to planning an event that draws almost 6,000 people from more than 10 counties to the city of Binghamton, Gina Chapman worries about details. But she doesn't think twice about crowd control.

That's because 26 criminal justice students at Broome-Delaware-Tioga BOCES help the city police department ensure that participants in the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk are safe.

"We have walkers and people in strollers and even wheelchairs, and it's the biggest relief for me every year that all I have to do is call or e-mail Don and he takes care of it," Chapman said.

Don Entwistle teaches in the criminal justice program and is a board member of the Broome-Tioga BOCES Teachers Association.

He coordinates the student-volunteer efforts at the Strides walks and at nine other events throughout the school year.

"Having our students volunteer is a real win-win for everyone,'' Entwistle said. "It gives them the practical, hands-on experience in crowd control and large-scale communication they need."

It also helps out good causes that might otherwise have to hire security, he said.

Students also volunteer for Veterans Day, Memorial Day and holiday parades in the Southern Tier and for other charitable walks. They handle regional events such as the annual Odyssey of the Mind tournament.

"It's always about supporting our communities and our students," said Ken Smith, president of the Broome-Tioga BOCES TA.

The BOCES local expects a large turnout this year.

"We have a number of colleagues battling cancer in our schools right now," said Colleen Cawley, who coordinates the local's efforts.

"I think that's what I like about the Making Strides walks — it's not just about one group. It's about everybody coming together to do something," Entwistle said.

Like so many people, cancer has touched him. Last year his mentor, William Mertha, a member of the Herkimer County BOCES TA, died from cancer.

"I owe a lot to Bill, who helped me out along the way," Entwistle said.

Besides Binghamton, walks have been held in Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Waterloo and Salem, Washington County.

— Betsy Sandberg