360 Youth services adds events to annual Spring Ahead Run on May 3

When Shaquille Artis found himself without a home, he turned to 360 Youth Services Transitional Housing Program, where he quickly found the help and support he needed to overcome the many obstacles he faced.

Now he is joining other 360 housing clients and staff to help build a kids' obstacle course, one of the new elements added to the annual 360 Youth Services Spring Ahead Run this year that will start at 7:50 a.m. Sunday, May 3, at Calamos Investments, 2020 Calamos Court, Naperville.

"360 was helpful in giving me the direction I needed," Artis said. "Now I want to find ways to give back to say thank you."

The timed course will have obstacles such as rope webs, tunnels and climbing walls for kids in kindergarten through eighth grade to navigate.

Besides the kids' obstacle course, another new element has been added: a 50-yard High Heel Dash. The High Heel Dash is for anyone 18 and older. The only requirement is the heels worn must be more than 2 inches high.

The 5K Street Run, 10K Trail Run and 5K Wheelchair Race continue to be the marquee elements of the Spring Ahead event and draw participants from all over the area. Celebrating its 16th year, the event is one of the longest-running 5K and 10K runs in the region.

The Spring Ahead Run raises vital funds for the 360 Youth Services programs focused on prevention education, counseling and housing.

360 Youth Services also will honor moms at the event by continuing with the theme that was added last year - Let's Celebrate Mom.

"This is an amazing theme and one that really touched all of us last year," said Pete Schubel, event chairman and 360 Youth Services board member. "It is also a great opportunity to spend time together as a family in a fun and healthy atmosphere, and if we can support an amazing agency like 360 Youth Services, I could not ask for anything more."

For information or to register, visit 360springahead.com. Registration is $25 for the kids obstacle course, $30 for the high heel race, $35 for the 5K wheelchair race or street run, and $40 for the 10K trail run.

360 Youth Services provides services to young adults, school-aged youth, and their families through substance abuse prevention education, counseling and shelter.

To learn more about their programs and initiatives, visit 360youthservices.org.