We invite you to join us for the 28th Annual Kennett Run on Saturday, May 20. This tradition began in 1989 when Kennett Run Charities was established by local community service groups. Since then, it has been our privilege to promote the general well-being and civic betterment of Kennett Square area residents and organizations.

 Why do we do this event each year? We do it to raise funds for our local nonprofit organizations and to improve the health of our community. Since 1989, Kennett Run Charities has made grants totaling more than $1 million to organizations that support the needs of the people of Kennett Square. Last year, we made grants totaling more than $50,000 to 55 organizations. Proceeds from the Kennett Run go directly back into our community. In addition to fundraising, our volunteers have helped with maintenance and redevelopment of Anson B. Nixon Park and many community enrichment programs.

 We are ready for another successful event this year. Race Director J.J. Simon and his team have created a new course to better showcase the Downtown Kennett Square business district. Race day activities include the 10K and 5K runs and the popular 10K and 5K PoweRun and the 1 Mile Run/Walk.  The new course map is included in this publication and available at www.kennettrun.net.

 We are excited to continue the FundRun. Elementary school children from the Kennett, Unionville and Avon Grove School districts who participate in the Kennett Run will raise money for their schools. For every child that registers, Kennett Run Charities will donate $5 to their schools.

 For our future runners, we will have 1mile Kids Fun Run around the Anson Park ponds.

 This year's 10K will be run in honor of long-time Kennett Run competitor John Schultz, who tragically passed away on November 17, 2016, after being struck by an automobile. John ran the 10K course for many years wearing his signature red shorts and no shirt. We will miss him dearly.

 To support local families in need, we are hosting a food drive to benefit Kennett Area Community Service. Please join me and bring your donation of non-perishable food items to the Kennett YMCA on Friday evening or to Anson Park on Saturday during the race. Many other nonprofit community organizations will have information tables in the park on race day. Stop by and learn how you can support your community!

 This all-volunteer community event is planned, organized and staffed by hundreds of volunteers, including members of the Rotary Club of Kennett Square and the Kennett Square Lions Club. Robust community involvement makes this event even more special.

 We are very grateful for the support of our corporate sponsors and race day vendors. With their loyal financial support, this event has been a “win” for the Kennett Square community year after year. Please stop by and see them in the park.

 We extend our deepest appreciation to East Marlborough Township, Borough of Kennett Square, Kennett Township Police Officers, Kennett Fire Company, Longwood Fire Company and their EMS staff, and Anson B. Nixon Park. The event runs smoothly and safely, thanks to their hard work. When you're running or walking on race day, please give them a big “thank you” – we could not do it without them.

 

A moment of inspiration creates a lifetime of change. Do something to promote better health and register today for the 2017 Kennett Run.

 

See you on race day!

 

B. Christopher Daney, CPA

President, Kennett Run Charities

www.kennettrun.net