Runners and walkers joined the Easter Bunny in Shillington Saturday morning for the 5th annual Rise ’N Run 5k & Fun Run. Hosted by Immanuel United Church of Christ the fast and flat course took runners through the borough and Governor Mifflin campus.
This year’s race proceeds benefited Blankets of Hope-Berks and Bethany Children’s Home. Blankets of Hope provides fleece blankets to shelters, Veterans, children’s homes, hospice patients, seniors and any organization that has a need. Bethany Children’s Home provides a safe place of nurture, protection, and supportive care to help youth have a positive and productive future. On average the race raises $3,000 each year.
“We really want to be good community partner and the Rise ‘N Run 5k helps up give back and be community minded.” Kerry Reazor, Rise ‘N Run Committee Member.
Founder of Blankets of Hope, Marc Goldstein, competed in the 5k to inspire followers of his non-profit. Goldstein prominently mentioned before the race that this was the first time in 30 years he has run a 5k.
“I will finish regardless if the EMT’s have to wheel me to the finish line”. All kidding aside, Goldstein was humbled by the amount of people who came out to support his organization and Bethany Children’s Home. “Every person deserves to feel secure, to be warm and to have hope, this race defiantly helps us fulfill our mission.”