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Run for the STARS 5K returns for its 20th year May 20

This year, the STARS Disability Ministry is celebrating 20 years of "Run for the STARS: More Than A Race."

The 5K run will be at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 20. Sign up at runforthestars.com.

Packet pickup will be Thursday and Friday, May 18-19, from noon to 8 p.m. at College Church Commons, 332 E. Seminary Ave. in Wheaton.

For over 55 years, College Church's disability ministry has been a place where families affected by disability could come and feel welcome. They refer to children and adults with intellectual disabilities as STARS. Last year's "Run for the STARS" provided recreation and training opportunities for over 100 STARS and respite for their families.

It has always been more than a race. It's a way that people can come alongside people affected by disability and remind their families that they care.

Run for the STARS has raffle prize packages that local businesses have supported.

The race fee includes performance cotton T-shirts for adults and kids. Shirt sizes guaranteed with registration by April 15.

Early bird fee for the 5K or wheelchair division is $30. The STARS Dash and Kids Dash are $12.

There will be custom medals for the top three in standard CARA age groups.

For questions, contact race director Lance Clemens at lmc530740@gmail.com.

"Run for the STARS" brings competitive runners together with families for more than just a race. They run to help support individuals and families in the STARS community. The STARS ministry serves over 140 families affected by disability, and parents do not need to attend College Church.

Proceeds from last year's run provided:

• Full and partial scholarships for recreational camps such as WalCamp, Springhill Camp, and Soaring with Eagles camp. STARS have a great time, and families get rest and respite.

• Full and partial scholarships for entire families to attend retreats such as Joni and Friends, where they are refreshed in body and spirit.

• STARS Adult Retreat, a weekend get away with volunteers who engage in deeper spiritual conversations and develop stronger relationships.

Since there is a 90% unemployment rate for individuals with developmental disabilities, last year's "Run for the STARS" also provided for a grant that paid for job coaches at two resale shops, STARS Resale and Twice is Nice. These shops help train and supervise STARS in the workplace.

Make a difference and "Run for the STARS!"

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