Run, walk or stroll in JOURNEYS 5K Superhero Race
Nearly everyone dreams of "saving the day" for a friend, neighbor, or loved one at some point in life.
JOURNEYS | The Road Home is giving area residents just such an opportunity. The nonprofit agency that provides services and shelter to families and individuals that have lost, or are in danger of losing, their homes in North and Northwest suburban Cook County, is hosting its annual 5K run/walk on Saturday, June 28. Participants are encouraged to don their favorite caped-crusader wear and "Be a Superhero for the Homeless." All proceeds will go to help the homeless children and families supported by JOURNEYS | The Road Home.
"This year for the Superhero 5K we have added a one-mile Super Stroll for anyone who feels that the 5K is too long," said JOURNEYS | The Road Home board President Lisa Eckert. "Lots of families with kids and strollers like this distance, as well as seniors. Participants can wear Superman, Wonder Woman, Incredibles, or any other favorite superhero costumes if they want, and come out to Palatine on June 28, for a summer sprint or stroll to help the homeless."
"We are the only provider in North/Northwest Cook County to offer both shelter and social services to the homeless and at-risk, and for those that don't think this is a problem in our area, think again - we served over 1,100 clients this past year," said Eckert of JOURNEYS. "And we're not only providing temporary shelter to those without a home or serving a hot meal to those that are hungry. We are empowering individuals to take control of their lives and find an independent way to a more stable, secure life's journey."
The Superhero 5K begins at 9 a.m., with race day registration and packet pickup at 7:30 a.m., at Palatine Towne Square.
Pre-race day packet pickup is from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. June 26 and 27 at Journey's back entrance at 1140 E. Northwest Highway in Palatine.
The entry fee is $35 for adults 18 and older, $30 for students ages 11-17, and $5 for children 10 and under. Online and mail registration ends at 3 p.m. on June 27. On-site registration will be available on race day beginning at 7:30 a.m.
The race will proceed rain or shine and there will be no refunds.
Participants who would like to collect pledges to help offset the costs of JOURNEYS' PADS Shelter Program can download a pledge form online at www.journeystheroadhome.org. Pledges may be dropped off at JOURNEYS before race day or at the Pledge Table the day of the event. A prize will be awarded to the one who raises the most funds.
Awards will be given to the top overall male and female finishers and the top three finishers of the following age divisions: 10 and younger, 11-20, 21-30, 31-40, 41-50, 51-60, 61-70, and 71+. Overall winners do not receive age division awards.
The JOURNEYS Superhero 5K course is USATF-certified and starts at the pavilion in downtown Palatine, then winds through the downtown area. No animals are allowed on the course. Strollers are welcome and will be directed to the rear of the line for safety. The race will be timed by Race Time of Winfield. Race results will be posted on www.racetime.info.
For further event information, call Corey Keller at (847) 963-9163 x16 or email events@padstohope.org.
JOURNEYS | The Road Home is a nonprofit agency that provides services and shelter, as well as networks, thousands of volunteers and various local agencies to work together on behalf of families and individuals that have lost, or are in danger of losing, their homes in North and Northwest suburban Cook County. JOURNEYS provides shelter and/or rehabilitation for those in need, along with transition to housing and homeless prevention service. Its goal is to build awareness in the community so it can help those most at risk and keep them from ever knowing the despair of losing their home. Visit www.journeystheroadhome.org or call (847) 963-9163.
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