We are always on the lookout for opportunities to support local organizations with worthy causes. So when Meghan Curran, daughter of President, Shawn Curran, discovered she had a personal connection with the Joseph Maley Foundation, it was only a matter of time before she brought their important mission to our attention.
“I coached Meghan in swimming many years ago,” says Maggie Moss Mestrich, Director of Development and Communications for the foundation. “We have a swimming program in the organization where athletes with disabilities are paired with swimmers. Meghan answered our call for volunteers, became a swimming mentor, and it rekindled our relationship.”
The foundation’s mission is to create awareness and build acceptance for children with all disabilities. Staff and volunteers work with kids of all ages, focusing on adaptive athletics, youth leadership, and service learning. After learning this Curran decided to sponsor theJoseph Maley Foundation’s seventh annual 5k Walk, Run, Roll.
The event, held July 11th at IUPUI’s Michael A. Carroll Stadium Track, will be a fun and healthy way for the community to get involved in helping the foundation continue its efforts to improve the lives of children with disabilities.
“It’s just so much fun and there is something for everyone regardless of your abilities,” Mestrich says. “Dairy Queen is providing Dilly Bars and Strawberry Shortcakes so you can get up early and run, then enjoy ice cream at nine in the morning.”
You can run the race in one of two ways: a times 5k or an untimed 1.5 mile run/walk. Both are a fantastic way to show your support. Additionally, there is a special race for elite runners who ran the 5k last year. Men with times of 18 minutes or under and women with times of 21 minutes and under will start at 8:00 a.m., setting the pace for the day.
“The open event starts at 8:30 a.m., so this early start for elite runners gives everyone the chance to watch them finish and should create a great energy,” Mestrich says.
Runners, walkers, and rollers of all abilities are welcome to compete, and there will be mentors from the foundation’s adaptive athletics program on-hand to help those who need an extra push.
“We will do this run together,” Mestrich says.
Visit the Joseph Maley Foundation’s website for more information on how you can join the 5k. We hope to see you there!