Sun 6/28 @ 8:30AM
Head out to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo this weekend to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland 5th annual 5K run and 1-mile walk.
Of course, going to the zoo is always an experience, and the Cleveland Zoo is one of the best in the country. See the elephants lumber, watch the kangeroos hop in Australian Adeventure and witness the swift, powerful leaps of the cheetahs. All creatures will be getting their exercise.
Registration opens at 7AM on the day of the race but online registration begins 6/24 at 9AM. The cost is $20 if you pre-register and $25 if you register on the day of the race.
Why do this? Because Big Brothers Big Sisters helps many Cleveland kids off to a good start. The proceeds from this race support the mentoring programs of the organization. Children (Littles) and adult volunteers (Bigs) get together to talk and walk, explore cultural institutions and connect by listening to and responding to each other with presence and focus.
Imagine walking through Lake View Cemetery on a Saturday afternoon with an inner-city boy and talking to him about Cleveland’s history, inspirational people and the various flowers and trees — you might even talk a bit about making the most out of life. Or maybe you’re paired up with a 10-year-old girl who just likes to listen to music with you and laughs when you dance on the beach after eating ice cream cones.
Mentoring a vulnerable young person will not only improve their chances of becoming successful, but it may change you in ways you cannot imagine. According to the Big Brothers Big Sisters website, “81% of former Littles surveyed agree their Big gave them hope and changed their perspective of what they thought possible.”
Sound like a good reason to spend money on a race at the zoo? If you need another one, think about the physical push to run a 5K or the opportunity to spend the entire day at the Zoo where live entertainment will be provided from Rock the House Entertainment and Q104’s Average Joe and refreshments are served to all runners/walkers after the race. The first 300 registrants receive a free t-shirt and water bottle, and spectators who cheer you on receive discounted tickets.
Sign up here. This is only one of the organization’s four major fund-raising events. The organization also stages the Adam Brownfield Memorial Golf Outing, March Madness and Bowl for Kids’ Sake. Read about their events, some real life stories, and how to volunteer or donate on their website.
[Written by Claudia Taller]