Human Race supports 71 DuPage nonprofits
Adam Schweitzer of Downers Grove runs to ensure the YWCA can continue to help survivors of sexual assault.
Oak Brook lawyer Clarissa Myers runs to help the DuPage Bar Foundation support justice in our communities.
And Amanda Spear Hartley of Lisle runs on behalf of SamaraCare Counseling to encourage those facing mental health issues to seek help so they don't struggle alone.
All three will run Saturday, May 6, in the DuPage Human Race alongside nearly 1,600 people — each with a unique story and a personal motivation to help those around them. And in running, they will support one of 71 DuPage nonprofit groups with a cause they hold dear.
The race is organized by Giving DuPage, the county's clearinghouse to connect volunteers and donors with local nonprofits, with the aim of helping local organizations raise money without dedicating staff time and resources, Executive Director Shefali Trivedi said.
In its first five years, the DuPage Human Race drew 6,828 participants who collectively raised more than $347,500 and drew attention to 135 charities at work in the county.
“These nonprofit organizations offer a multitude of resources that protect, improve and enrich our DuPage community,” Trivedi said.
Organizations taking part in this year's race work to end hunger and food insecurity, offer housing solutions and services, provide educational and literacy programs, serve seniors, help veterans and military families, improve access to health care and medical support services, support arts and culture programs, support children and youth, and more, she said. The goal this year is to raise a combined $100,000 for the causes.
“This is truly a community event, made possible with generous partners, volunteers, sponsors, organizations, runners and walkers supporting their favorite cause,” Trivedi said.
Individuals, families and even pets may run in the 5K or walk a 2-mile route beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday at The Esplanade, 1901 Butterfield Road, Downers Grove. Participants can register on race day or in advance at dupagehumanrace.org/registerdonate, where they can choose which organization will benefit from their signup fees.
Schweitzer, Myers and Spear Hartley already have chosen their causes. Today we hear from them and race participants Shama Ahmed and Taylor Cosgrove about why they're motivated to run in the DuPage Human Race.
DuPage Human Race
<b>Why:</b> Proceeds support 71 nonprofit organizations working in DuPage County; participants choose which group benefits from their registration
<b>When:</b> 9 a.m. Saturday, May 6
<b>Where:</b> The Esplanade, 1901 Butterfield Road, Downers Grove
<b>Cost:</b> $45 for 5K runners, $40 for 2-mile walkers; Kids Walk free for ages 13 and younger
<b>Info:</b> <a href="http://www.dupagehumanrace.org">dupagehumanrace.org</a> or dupagehumanrace@dupageco.org