Walk to benefit St. Charles riverfront beautification efforts

A fundraiser at Pottawatomie Park next month will support beautification efforts along the Fox River in downtown St. Charles.

The 3rd annual Bob Leonard 5K Run & Walk-A-Thon steps off at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, from the park, 8 North Ave, and follows a scenic, 2.7-mile route along the riverfront.

The event is named after St. Charles resident Bob Leonard, who lead multiple enhancement projects along the river until his death in December 2006.

Proceeds support the River Corridor Foundation of St. Charles, whose projects have included stabilizing the shoreline and creating walkways and a canoe launch.

Romi Herron, communications coordinator for the Downtown St. Charles Partnership, co-sponsor of the event, said last year's fundraiser drew about 200 runners and walkers from St. Charles and beyond.

"It demonstrates that Mr. Leonard's impact was not just in St. Charles," she said. "This event has grown quietly but significantly each year."

There will be seven age groups for men and women, with ribbons given to the top three finishers in each grouping, as well as the two top performers overall. Registration is $25 and open through July 31. The first 300 registrants receive a free T-shirt.

Organizers hope to raise more than $12,000 for the next phase of work, which includes the installation of a pedestrian and bike path.

To register, visit SignMeUp.com/65916 or call (630) 513-5386, extension 1. More information on the corridor project is available at stcrivercorridor.org.