PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Two local organizations are joining forces to offer a heart-healthy, family fun activity that has the added bonus of raising funds for local causes. TAMC and the Presque Isle Kiwanis Club are inviting community members of all ages to come “Light Up the Night” during a 5K Fun Run & Walk Friday, Nov. 15.
“We really want this to be a fun event for the whole family,” said Dawn Poitras, event organizer. “We’ll be giving out glow in the dark items to all participants and lighting up our starting/ending point at the TAMC Pinkham entrance with glow sticks. We’ll also be offering children’s activities inside TAMC, run by Kiwanis members, so that parents who want to leave their smaller children in a safe, fun environment while they take part in the race can do so.”
Healthy activities and snacks are a key point for Poitras, who leads the TAMC Total Health Team, TAMC’s wellness program. Once participants get their hearts pumping during the 5K run or walk, they will return to heart healthy snacks and hot beverages.
In addition to offering a healthy family activity, the Light Up the Night event is also intended to be a fundraiser. Organizers are suggesting a $25 donation to register. All proceeds will benefit TAMC Cardiac Rehab heart health education efforts and the Kiwanis’ Christmas projects for community members in need.
Tying in the local Kiwanis Club was a natural fit. Poitras, who is the current president of the organization, knew that the collaboration would be beneficial.
“The heart of the Kiwanis mission is to help our local children. Our projects this time of year consist of a Christmas toy drive for kids and food program for families who may otherwise have a bleak holiday,” said Poitras. “An event like Light Up the Night is a chance for us to offer something fun and healthy for families, while raising funds to support our charity efforts. In return, Kiwanis members can provide manpower for the event to help TAMC. It’s really a win-win for both organizations.”
Registration for the fun run begins at 6 p.m. at the TAMC Pinkham entrance. Individuals can pre-register online at www.tamc.org or by completing a paper registration form available through Kiwanis members, at TAMC’s information desk at the main entrance, and at some local retailers.
Walkers will get under way at 6:45 p.m., followed by the runners at 7 p.m. They will loop on a designated path through the southern end of Presque Isle, ending back at TAMC. Prizes will be awarded for the top finishers.
Participants are asked to wear white or glow in the dark clothing. Those who want to get creative can decorate their T-shirts with glow in the dark paint.
