The 33rd Annual Human Race Walkathon and Fun Run will take place on Saturday May 11, 2013. Each year more than 2000 local residents gear up in support of the nonprofit, school or charity of their choice to walk, run, or wheel their way along West Cliff Drive.
“This year we expect over 120 participating organizations to collectively step out to ask the community for financial support,” states Human Race Coordinator Kelly Mercer.
The Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County has organized and hosted the event since it’s inception in 1980. The Human Race was conceived to build strength in numbers, generate awareness, and to give community members a means to stand up for the causes they care about.
“Every community has places dedicated to improving and enriching our lives. Some are hidden little gems, and others are well-recognized institutions for the greater good. The goal of the Human Race has always been to connect individuals with those who make our community thrive,” states Volunteer Center Executive Director Karen Delaney.
Many community members and local organizations return year after year in support of the event. The Race has become a fundraising mainstay and has grown into the largest collaborative fundraiser of its kind in Santa Cruz County.
“What I love most about the Race is that it has a true Santa Cruz feel, with lively costumes, banners, eclectic music, and participants from all corners of the community stepping up to address community needs. We have a wide-range of participants that includes school children, animal lovers, art and music lovers, parks program supporters, environmental activists and public service advocates. You name the cause, and there is someone at the Human Race walking for it,” states Mercer.
In the last five years, the Human Race has generated nearly $1 million dollars for participating organizations. “We have set an ambitious goal of raising $250,000 this year. No contribution is too small. I look forward to a new round of community members joining us at this year’s race,” states Mercer.
Race day will include t-shirts for the first 2000, prizes, a costume contest, music along the course, a free breakfast and a post race barbeque. Community members of all ages are encouraged to join their fellow neighbors in this family friendly, fun event. Register and download a pledge sheet at www.humanracesc.org or call the Volunteer Center at 831- 427-5075 for more information.
Human Race Walkathon and Fun Run May 11, 2013. Starting Line: 2300 Delaware Ave, Santa Cruz. Schedule of Events:
7:00 AM: Get fueled for the fun run and walk with a pre-race breakfast for participants.
7:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Registration and donation turn-in
8:00 AM: Runners begin and walkers follow after
10:30 – 12:30PM: Picnic and BBQ. Relax and enjoy great food with friends and family
Participants of all ages are welcomed and encouraged to attend. Crowd friendly dogs are also welcome on a leash.