Livonia running event will aid your fitness — and a noble cause
The Run 2 Save Youth event is set for June 3.
If you’re a runner — or someone who simply enjoys walking workouts — and you’d like to turn your energy into proceeds for a noble cause, the Run 2 Save Our Youth 5K event through the streets of Livonia will fall right in your lane.
Set for June 3 at 9 a.m. with the starting line at Livonia City Hall, the annual Run 2 Save Our Youth 5K is a fundraiser organized by the Livonia Police Department and the Livonia Save Our Youth Coalition — a group of local parents, teens, educators, health-care workers, law enforcement, members of the faith community and substance abuse professionals.
“We’re all here for different reasons but with a shared mission to educate and empower the community regarding the health and safety of our young people with a focus on alcohol and other drugs,” a statement on the coalition’s website explains.
The goal: helping others
“You could be currently experiencing substance abuse within your household. Perhaps you have personally overcome addiction and want to inspire others. Or maybe you’re a concerned citizen just looking to make a difference. No matter where you’re at, there’s a place for you here to get connected with education, support and opportunities to help others. We’re so glad you’re here and look forward to meeting you.”
The idea for the coalition — originally known as the Livonia Save Our Youth Task Force — was planted in 2006 by Livonia residents Diane and Andy Montes, who lost their son Brian to an accidental drug overdose.
On Oct. 18, 2006, Diane Montes organized a community meeting to try and build community support for a Livonia Save Our Youth Task Force.
A great cause is born
Over 140 people with questions and stories to share attended the initial meeting.
From that meeting, a group formed and the first meeting of the Livonia Save Our Youth Task Force was held on Nov. 15, 2006.
Since 2006, the Livonia Save Our Youth Coalition continues to grow and expand.
In 2012, the name was changed from “Task Force” to “Coalition” to reflect the longevity of the group and intent to continue its mission and activities in the community.
The 5K run is an important fund-raiser for the coalition.
All the details
The entry fee for the event is $25 (the price increases after May 28); however, participants aged 18 and under and 60 and over can run for $5 or less.
In addition to individual age groups, team categories are also available.
Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers in each group — and all participants will receive a sharp medal for their efforts.
For more information and to register, visit the event’s official website here.
There are opportunities to donate to the coalition without running or walking in the race.
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