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And, as far as the charity part, a big group of people walking does raise awareness. Awareness is the first step in a cause. Before October became pink-for-breast-cancer month, my awareness was raised about breast cancer by the various walks/marathons/etc. in which my friend participated. Not that I didn't know about it before, but that it was a growing concern with rising rates - I didn't give it much heed before that (and by the time my mom got breast cancer, what awareness of mine was raised beforehand did seem to help me parse the situation, odd as that mayy seem.)
Also, taking action - that is, doing something physical and tangible - is satisfying. Calling people to ask for donations - that's not particuarly satisfying. (At least, my short stint of telemarketing for donations wasn't for me.) But expending energy, as in the case of a charity walk, would have a psychological effect on the people who were walking. As in, "my steps bring attention and support for a cause." While I admit the two acts (walking and fundraising) are separate, the feeling of purpose is related, so it doesn't seem weird to me.
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