On Sunday, May 6, I will be donating my time and photography to the Let Me Run Columbus SpringFest 5k. As a former high school teacher, father of two (almost three!), and a lifelong health and wellness fanatic, volunteering for race-day photography was a no-brainer. Why support Let Me Run in Columbus and around the country?
For starters, take a look at who they are and what they do:
"Let Me Run is a nonprofit wellness program that inspires boys to be themselves, be active, and belong. With a comprehensive curriculum that applies the power of running, the program encourages boys to develop their psychological, emotional and social health, in addition to their physical health.
Twice a week for seven weeks, two trained volunteer coaches lead an elementary or middle school team through practice. Designed to amplify confidence, self-expression, and respect for others, each practice includes a lesson from the Let Me Run curriculum that incorporates running, games and activities. Each fall and spring season culminates in a 5k race festival that celebrates the boys’ personal growth."
In a world where getting kids outside is harder and harder, where it's easier to sit and binge-watch a show instead of finding a group of friends and having some fun exercising, what better mission could you ask for, especially in support of young boys?
What's amazing to me is that Let Me Run is represented in chapters in 29 states. The Columbus chapter began in the fall of 2014. While the Columbus chapter has usually finished their season running in other 5k races, the May 6, 2018, race will be their first stand-alone race as a chapter. That means over 400 runners will take part in the SpringFest 5k on May 6. Talk about growth and success for the young boys of Columbus!
Let Me Run founder Ashley Armistead adds: "We're thrilled to be growing Let Me Run in Columbus, and helping boys there grow into physically, mentally and emotionally healthy young men. Big thanks to our coaches and volunteers in the Buckeye state who are inspiring and empowering these boys. Have a great race!"
Let Me Run regional director for Columbus, Claire Houpt, agrees: "To see how quickly Let Me Run has grown in Columbus is a testament to the positive impact the program is having on the boys in our community. We have boys around the city ready and waiting to be a part of a team. Two coaches per team is all it takes to bring Let Me Run to a school/site. That's the need we have right now in order to supply this life-changing program to boys in Central Ohio."
If you want to learn more about joining the Columbus chapter of Let Me Run, then visit this link for details.
Want to sign up for the race on May 6? A few spots are still available! Follow this link for the details.
Want to learn more about Let Me Run? Click here. For a little history, click here. For testimonials from young runners and educators, click here.
I can't wait to join Let Me Run for their first stand-along race in Columbus. Will you be joining us?
(All photos courtesy of Let Me Run.)