Go run for a good cause

What started out 27 years ago as an idea to help elevate awareness of the hospice philosophy of compassionate end-of-life care by hospice volunteer Jim Dicus and brothers Jeff and Jamie Thomas has turned into a beloved community tradition.

And that tradition will continue Saturday with the 25th Run & Fun Walk for Hospice of St. Mary’s County, which will be held 8:30 a.m. Saturday, April 23, at the St. Mary’s County Governmental Center in Leonardtown.

A news release stated the race “may be the only run/walk event in the world where everyone wins – they win for the community and they absolutely understand that – and its a great feeling.”

The run and walk also serves stuffed ham, barbecue, gourmet hot dogs, pasta salads and tomato bisque soup and crab soup, as well as fruit and bagels, which Washington Running Report said “sets this event apart from any other in the Washington, D.C. region.”

The race is back following a 2-year hiatus due to the pandemic and is projected to break the $1 million raised milestone, 100% of which benefits hospice. The funds also help offset the cost of maintaining the Hospice House, which was established in 2012.

There are four different divisions: a 5K run, 10K run, Fun Walk and Virtual Participant.

The cost is $35 and participants can register in person 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, April 22, or at a higher cost from 7 to 8 a.m. Saturday, April 23, at Leonard Hall Drill Hall, 23145 Leonard Hall Drive in Leonardtown.

For more information, go to www. runforhospice.org.