On Saturday, May 9, hundreds of runners, joggers, and walkers will be “on their marks” and ready to participate in the third annual Race for the Orphans at the Coweta County Fairgrounds in Newnan. The race features a 5K, 1 mile Fun Run, and Tot Trot.
The Tot Trot (1/4 mile) begins at 8:15 a.m. and costs $10.
The one mile Fun Run begins at 8:30 a.m. and costs $15.
The 5K begins at 9 a.m. and costs $25.
Registration fees increase by $5 after May 1.
A Phantom Runner (T-Shirt) will be available for $20.
Other festivities include lots of door prizes, food, a gift for all participating moms in honor of Mother’s Day, and a live musical performance by Georgia native, John Waller.
Race for the Orphans is a ministry of First Baptist Church of Newnan’s orphan/foster care ministry with the ongoing mission of “Raising Awareness, Compassion, and Education (RACE) about the needs of orphans around the world.”
First held in 2013, the race has enabled three families to realize their dream of adopting a child domestically or internationally.
“The monies we raise from registrations, T-shirt sales, and corporate sponsorship enables us to assist adoptive families,” said Kelly Preston, event co-organizer. “As an adoptive parent, I know all too well the financial realities families face.”
She went on to say that the race is the organization’s primary fundraiser.
“We’re working to get the word out about the race. It’s a wonderful event that supports a great cause. If we can connect a child with a forever family, we’ve made a huge impact.” Preston said, “Globally there are more than 150 million orphans who need loving families.”
The race’s impact can be measured locally as it was recently announced that the Jordan Family of Newnan and the Williams Family of Fayetteville were selected as grant recipients.
“We collaborated with Lifeline Children’s Services of Georgia to identify adoptive families that met grant criteria and Lifesong for Orphans to assist us in the selection process. We are thrilled for the families who were selected,” said Preston. Lifesong for Orphans, located in Gridley, Ill., provides matching grants, loans, and advice to families considering adoption.
“In 2014, we had more than 375 people participate in the race. We’re looking to exceed 400 this year, and from the positive responses we’re receiving from the community, I think we’ll meet our goal,” Preston concluded.
The Coweta County Fairgrounds are at 275 Pine Street in Newnan.
To register or for more information, visit www.racefortheorphans.weebly.com, or call RACE for the Orphans, 770-310-8222.
