AID's Summer Solstice 5K helps raise vital funds

On Monday, June 25, Association for Individual Development clients, volunteers, and participants came together to celebrate the start of summer with a 5K at the AID Elgin Community Services location.

Despite torrential rains dampening the originally scheduled event day, the Summer Solstice 5K persevered and helped raise much-needed funds for AID programs and services.

Participants were "bursted" with colorful powder as they made their way across a 3-mile course, with the top three male and female participants receiving extra special prizes.

All event attendees enjoyed a spectacular pre- and post-party which included an energetic DJ, delectable grilled goods, chilled refreshments and fun raffles.

The event was made possible with the help of over 50 volunteers and corporate, individual and family sponsors, including Bruce Edmund Rohr Inc.; David Smith and Suzanne Bessette-Smith; Eby-Brown Foundation; EFS Foundation; Elgin State Bank; First Alert; Hollywood Casino (Aurora); John and Suzanne Potter; John A. Mehaffey; Clifford, Marilynn and Creighton Klotz; Lauderdale Electric; Susan Lowrey; The Labs (Aurora); Tim and Debbie Torres; Tom and Lynn O'Shea; Walter and Janet Dwyer; and Waubonsee Community College.

For 57 years, the Association for Individual Development has served individuals with developmental, intellectual, physical and/or mental health challenges, those who have suffered a trauma and those at risk.

Vital, life-enriching services that promote the highest level of independence and community immersion include: autism programs; respite care; permanent supportive housing; in-home support; developmental and vocational training; job placement and on-the-job coaching services; crisis intervention; victims services; mental health treatment; behavioral intervention; health and wellness; community education; and advocacy.

For more information, visit www.AIDcares.org.

Follow www.facebook.com/AIDcares or twitter.com/AIDtweets.