.5K Ability Fun Run was a Homerun
Families
and friends participating in the Just For Kids .5K Ability Fun Run on Saturday,
June 15 only had to race around three-quarters of the trail around Olympic Park
to make a big difference in the lives of the special needs community.
Dr.
Ryan Davis and Dr. Steve Blackhurst from Lehi Dental, and Dr. Alan Jensen from
Smile Ranch Orthodontics sponsored the .5K Ability Fun Run, donating T-shirts,
medals, and bounce houses. Because of their sponsorship, the Just For Kids
organization will be able to keep all the money they raised at the event, over
$30,000 and counting. Dr. Davis and Dr. Jensen both have children who participate
in the Just For Kids programs, which made it extra special for their families.
“We’ve
been working hard since February to put on this event. It’s crazy, but it’s
wonderful to get here and celebrate with all the families and the athletes. It
makes all the work worth it once you see everyone here,” said Stephanie
College, Administrative Assistant for Just For Kids. Children and adults with
special needs get ready for the fun run months in advance, whether it’s by
training for the race or gathering donations. One member went to over 200
people by himself trying to get donations. The money Just For Kids raises
supports their day program for adults with special needs who have graduated
from high school (HIVES), their athletic program, and it offsets the cost of
tuition for the families of children and adults who participate in either
program.
There
were 42 teams who participated in the .5K on Saturday. Some teams included more
than a dozen family members and friends running, walking, and even riding through
the course. When they finished, University of Utah cheerleaders and the
Honorary Miss Lehi handed out medals. Near the playground at Olympic Park were
several bounce houses where some younger kids spent most of their time. Lehi
City provided and set up a stage and seating where a live band performed during
the event. Under the pavilion they served lunch, some of which was donated by
Chick-fil-A. The .5K Ability Fun Run also included a silent auction for dozens
of items donated by businesses and individuals.
“I did awesome,” said
Justin Davis, the first athlete to finish the .5K. “I love being here and
hanging out with my sisters and brothers, my parents, and best friends.”
