Courier-Leader photo/Paul Garrod
By Paul Garrod
Staff Writer
PAW PAW – The Paw Paw Area Rotary Club will host its 12th Annual 5K Santa Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk, Saturday, Dec. 9, at Freshwater Community Church, 600 East Michigan Ave., Paw Paw.
Proceeds from the run will be used to further the Rotary Club’s efforts locally and worldwide.
Doors open at 7:30 a.m. and participants will be able to pick up a Santa suit and enjoy the event’s pre-run party with live music and treats. The run starts at 9 a.m. The cost is $30, and participants can register on the day of event, with those under 12, free.
Each participant will receive a five-piece Santa suit to be worn during the run/walk (kids under 12 receive a Santa hat). A $100 donation will be made to Rotary International’s WASH program on behalf of the men’s and the women’s first place runners. Through water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs, Rotary’s people of action mobilize resources, form partnerships, and invest in infrastructure and training that yield long-term change.
Event organizers said in a press release, “Everyone’s a winner! The focus of this event is on high levels of participation. Every Santa who participates is a winner whether they just “get movin” or beat a personal record. In addition to the Santa suit, a medal will be presented to each person who completes the Santa Run.
This event is not timed.