Lakeshore Community Services hosted its annual “Race for the Rest of Us” at the Millcreek Mall on Saturday, a .5K that brought people together to show off their athletic skills for a good cause.
Saturday afternoon provided the perfect weather to get the community out and involved. The third annual “Race for the Rest of Us” kicked off at noon outside Dick’s Sporting Goods at the Millcreek Mall, letting crowds of all ages and abilities give it their all while supporting Lakeshore Community Services, a nonprofit that serves individuals with mental health needs as well as intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“The people who we serve, whether they have intellectual disabilities, whether they have mental health issues, have more challenges getting out of bed most days than we’ll have in a week, a month, so helping those folks is what it’s all about,” said Joe Lang, director of development at Lakeshore Community Services.
The course looped around the store for nearly three laps, and the best part was that participants did not have to run. They could take their time at the fun, no-pressure event.
Lakeshore created the race as a playful alternative to traditional 5Ks, focusing more on accessibility than competition. Staff said the short distance makes it possible for the individuals they serve to be included right alongside family members and supporters.
After the athletes showed their A-game, they were rewarded with Mighty Fine Doughnuts, ice cream from Niagara Creamery, and beer, or root beer for the kids.
The lighthearted event showed how the community can come together to support one another while raising awareness and support for Lakeshore Community Services and the people it serves.