Walk/run raises funds for substance abuse program
About 40 people took part in the virtual 5K walk/run Saturday morning in Forrest City.
The event raised more than $3,000 for the Shatterproof program, which raises awareness to help stamp out addiction by giving a voice to those suffering with substance abuse disorders.
The funds are used to help find good recovery programs to those people who need it.
Sam Wilson won the overall 5K male title, while Paige Laws won the overall 5K female title. Jim Bogan, 83, participated in the one-mile fun walk/run and won the raffle for a copy of Pierre McShan's book "A Winner's Mentality."
"We had between 40 and 50 participants," Carla Nimocks, one of the event’s organizers said following the race. "We are so pleased that everyone came out to rise up against addiction in our communities. Our stories may differ but our purpose is the same – eradicating the disease of addiction through recovery, education and raising awareness."
Participants were given the option to either run or walk in the 5K, which followed the same route as past 5K races.
"There were some of the participants who walked or ran in memory of a loved one they have lost due to addiction," Nimocks added. "Anyone who ran the 5K walk/run who wanted to could write the name of their loved one on a name badge and wear it. The point of the run/walk was to raise awareness about addiction and support recovery efforts."
Nimocks thanked all the participants, volunteers and the Forrest City Police Department for showing up and helping make the event a success.
"It was a great way to start the day," Nimocks said.