On September 22nd, Neighborlink Porter County (www.neighborlinkpc.org) hosted its first annual “Be the Link” 5k family fun run and dog walk at Sunset Hill County Park in Valparaiso. Though the weather threatened, the event was a great success and was enjoyed by over 100 participants and volunteers.
Registration began at 7 am and participants were greeted with hot coffee and donuts, and treat bags provided by Walgreens and other event sponsors. The competitive Fun Run began at 8:15 with a cannon blast, and nearly 50 runners trekked the wooded, hilly course. A Family and Dog walk began 15 minutes later where the families and their pets walked a similar 1 mile course. All participants were treated to complimentary donuts, hot dogs, water, and bananas. Those in attendance were very encouraging and said they would be back next year and would bring some friends!
The volunteers and staff were all dressed in colorful T-shirts and the participants all received their own contrasting color T shirt for participating. The top 3 male and female runners received Gold, Silver and Bronze hammer trophies, and there were drawings for gift items and certificates from event sponsors for all participants.
The event was planned as a fundraiser for Neighborlink Porter County, a 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to provide help and assistance to the elderly and needy in Porter County. For more information or to volunteer to help on a NeighborLink project, visit www.neighborlinkpc.org, or call 219-617-2077.