The Warsaw Police Department’s DARE program will hold its second annual run/walk 5K next weekend to raise awareness and dollars. The all-ages walk will be May 28 beginning at 9 a.m. at the Center Lake Pavilion. Thirteen age groups, from 9-and-under to 70-and-above, will compete in the course that runs through central Warsaw roadways. It’s all in an effort to showcase the benefits of DARE moreso than bring in the monies that fund the program moving forward, says program director and race organizer Officer Doug Light. “It’s never really been about the financial part of it,” said Light. “It’s always just been for us to be more visible, more involved in the community. We generate money off it, sure, but the main thing really is to promote health and wellness in the community and to get more visible in the community.” The 5K is the DARE program’s main fundraiser of the year, with all proceeds funneled directly back into the program that works to educate community students about drug use and gang participation. The local program is in its 21st year in area schools. “We’ve enjoyed a lot of area support, and this is just another way to become more visible and get our name out there and for people to get behind the program,” said Light. Light said the 5K’s first year saw 470 registered participants. He hopes to hit the 500 mark this year, but admits that with 230 pre-registered with a week to go, and with several other community fundraising walks happening the same day, that number might be difficult to hit. No matter, Light says. “We’ll see,” said Light. “It’s just been fun putting it together, and it’s fun seeing people come in and support it. That’s the neatest thing.”Registration is $15. Those wishing to register for the run/walk can do so by sending a check and a completed registration form to P.O. Box 1297, Warsaw, IN 46581, c/o WPD DARE 5K. Registration forms can be found at the Warsaw Police Department’s website at warsaw.in.gov For more information on the race, contact Light at 372-9576. aorgan@timesuniononline.com
