Organizers are busy putting the final plans in place for the inaugural Run for the Kids event.
The run takes place June 25 in Rondeau Provincial Park, and is a fundraiser for the Foundation of the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent (CTCCK).
Erin Genge, community engagement co-ordinator for the foundation, said more than 170 runners from across southwestern Ontario have signed up to “walk, run or move.
“I’m really excited to see so many people come out,” she said. “It’s fun to see all the treatment centre families get involved. They value the centre and we value how they are giving back to us.”
Genge said the foundation hopes to raise $50,000 through the run.
Run for the Kids will encourage participants to run/walk/wheel and enjoy the beauty of nature while raising funds for the CTC Foundation.
Genge said it is very inclusive, with options for people of all ages.
“People can move their bodies in whatever way they can – walking, running, in a wheelchair, with strollers,” she said. “It’s all about coming together and supporting the CTC. We’re looking to have people come out for the 5K event to walk or run, and we’re inviting families to come out and have their kids take part in a Kiddie Run of 200 metres.”
The 5K is also open to children as well.
But working up a good sweat is not the only element of the day. Genge said there will be more to see and do for families too.
“We’re going to have some family friendly vendors come out as well. We’ve got The Co. doing crafts for all the kiddos. Play Rangers and C-K Rec will have all their outdoor activity toys with them. Someone will be doing face painting,” she said. “There will be lots of activities for the kids.”
And then there’s the serenity of Rondeau Provincial Park.
“The trees are looking beautiful right now. I encourage all our participants to also enjoy the park for the afternoon,” she said.
To sign up for the event, Genge urges people to search for Run for the Kids at raceroster.com.
