By Omar Castellon
Staff Writer
On Feb. 18, the Antelope Valley Family YMCA will hold its third annual Friendship Charity Run. On that Saturday, there will be a total of three runs. Five and 10 kilometer races will begin at 7:00a.m., while a one kilometer event for children will be held at 8:30a.m. All proceeds raised during the event will go toward their scholarship funds, allowing those who haven’t the adequate resources to utilize the services of the Antelope Valley YMCA.
When asked for specific details regarding the organization’s aid, Linda Hairston, an employee of the local YMCA, said, “We offer scholarships for youth sports like basketball and soccer. We also offer scholarships on memberships.” These scholarships are granted purely on a financial-need basis, with the maximum household threshold set at $50,000. Families and individuals who potentially qualify for aid naturally have their income status verified.
Entry fees vary depending on which event a person has registered for. The five kilometer race is $20 per individual or $30 per couple. Those looking to participate in the 10 kilometer run only need to pay $10 more for either single or couples registration. The children’s event is the least expensive with a price of $10. A number of gifts are also included with the registration fees. Considering that 100 percent of the money raised on that day will go toward scholarships and benefitting the YMCA, it’s not unusual to see this event as an excellent way of servicing those in need, provided there’s enough interest.
Fortunately, last year’s outcome was substantial and predictions for this year seem optimistic. “Last year I think we raised about $1000. This year I am hoping for about $3000.” said Barbara Brodowsky, the Healthy Lifestyles Director. Similarly, the Antelope Valley YMCA plays hosts to other events that benefit the community. “My biggest race, or event of the year, is our Turkey Trot. We just hosted the third annual, and over 650 people participated, making it the largest race the Antelope Valley has ever seen. It was amazing,” said Brodowsky. She also said that beginning this year the Antelope Valley YMCA will host a total of three races. This new race will be called the Summer Sizzler 5k and will be held in June.
For those looking to simultaneously promote health and the spirit of charity, this event should be of interest. The Antelope Valley Family YMCA is located on 10St West, by the Lancaster City Park. All three races will begin at the Y and go through the park.
More information about this event can be obtained by contacting Brodowsky, either by calling (661)723-9622 or sending an email to BarbaraBrodowsky@ymcala.org.
