Families run, walk and roll through Geneva for Marklund

Hundreds of walkers and runners took to the streets of Geneva on a crisp fall Sunday morning for the second annual Run, Walk & Roll for Marklund.

The event, which featured 5K and 1-mile runs, raised thousands of dollars for Marklund, an organization that serves children and adults with developmental disabilities and special health care needs.

"We invite adults, kids, families and those in assistive devices like wheelchairs, walkers and specialized bicycles to join in," said Stephanie Heinz, development coordinator at Marklund. "It's a fun event and a great way for people to help make everyday life possible for individuals with profound disabilities."

Last year's inaugural run drew 600 walkers and runners and raised nearly $30,000 for the organization. This year's run was even bigger, with an estimated 700 participants.

Among this year's participants was 6-year-old Nora Sage of Batavia, who teased her father, Patrick, as she outpaced him using her new walker.

"Daddy, catch up," she said.

"(Nora) goes to Batavia public schools, but we like to support Marklund," her father said.

The route took participants through the South Mill Creek neighborhood on the western edge of Geneva. The event also featured a wheelchair division in the 5K and a Party in the Park after the run/walk, with food, music and kids activities.

Marklund has locations in Geneva and Bloomingdale, as well as a resale shop in Wood Dale.

For more info, visit www.Marklund.org.