As the weather warms and the sun peeks out of the clouds more often, there will be more opportunities for people to get out and run or walk.
World Compassion Network is providing not only a chance for people to get out and get some exercise, but also to benefit three local agencies.
The Third Annual Run/Walk For Hunger 5K is scheduled for March 26 at 10 a.m. in Winona Lake. Race-day registration will be at the Winona Lake Senior Center from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. Entry fee is $20.
WCN Executive Director Joe Wilkey said, "We want to encourage participation. The purpose is to raise funds to help those locally in need."
All proceeds raised from the event, above costs, which will be kept at a minimum, will go to Combined Community Services, Salvation Army and Our Father's House, he said.
In 2010, the Run/Walk For Hunger raised about $9,000 for the three agencies. There were more than 600 runners. In the first year, $6,000 was raised.
Besides raising money for the local agencies, Wilkey said another aspect of the event is to bring people together. Every generation of a family can participate, from children to grandparents. They've had five generations of a family run, as well as professional runners.
There will be prizes for each age category. Every participating child 12 years old and younger will get a participation medal.
The Run/Walk For Hunger will utilize the paved Heritage Trail in Winona Lake. The trail features water views, town streets, deep woods and several pieces of trailside artwork.
Even though the pre-registration period ended today, Greg Rauen, WCN disaster relief coordinator, said, they are still encouraging people to register and show up for the 5K. They can register up to the day of the event, but there is no guarantee there will be any t-shirts left by the day of the event.
Wilkey said they want to raise $12,000 this year. That will require more people to register and more donations. No matter how much is raised, Wilkey said, the agencies will be appreciative of what they receive.
Registration forms can be mailed to World Compassion Network, P.O. Box 1152, Warsaw, IN 46581.
