Glen Ellyn prepares for Freedom Four run

Runners can start their Independence Day with Glen Ellyn Park District's annual Freedom Four 4-Mile Run at 8 a.m. Monday, July 4.

The event attracts more than 800 runners, walkers and strollers each year, helping raise money for the Glen Ellyn Park District Scholarship Fund.

Race-day registration is $30.

The scholarship fund enables low-income individuals and families to participate in recreational programs. More than 200 families in Glen Ellyn are helped by the fund, and last year's race raised more than $2,000.

The Freedom Four 4-Mile Run is open to ages 6 and older and divided into age divisions: 6-9, 10-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70-plus. The first two male and female finishers in each division are awarded a prize. Participants can register for the race and view the course map online at www.gepark.org.

The race starts at 8 a.m. sharp July 4 on Lenox Road, right next to Lake Ellyn. Every participant who preregisters will receive a Freedom Four T-shirt. Registration on the day of the race will start at 6 a.m. and end at 7:30 a.m.

Those not wanting to run can still get out, enjoy the warm summer morning, and raise money for a cause that benefits the community. Volunteers are needed to assist in registration, direct runners, distribute water, and more.

The first 25 volunteers will receive a free month at Ackerman Sports & Fitness Center. Contact Jenny Clark at jclark@gepark.org for more information on volunteering.

The annual "Afternoon Festivities" event, which takes place from 1 to 4 p.m. July 4 at Lake Ellyn Park, also helps raise money for the scholarship fund through wristband sales for games and inflatables.