The Achievement Centers for Children in Highland Hills will hold its 26th annual "A Most Excellent Race" fundraiser this Sunday, June 26, at Beaumont School in Cleveland Heights.
The event is a 10K run, 5K run/walk to benefit the numerous recreation programs at Camp Cheerful in Strongsville.
The programs allow children and young adults with disabilities to participate in a wide variety of programs like adapted aquatics, therapeutic horseback riding, day camp, night camp and other adapted sports.
The organization will soon be celebrating its 70th anniversary, and currently has more than 1600 enrolled in its recreational programs.
Race day registration starts at 7:30 AM, with the race starting at 9 AM.
Registration information can be found on the Achievement Centers for Children website.
The event will be hosted by NewsChannel 5's Joe Pagonakis.
Melissa Kristanko of Seven Hills has her daughter Jenna participating in many of the programs at Camp Cheerful, they will both take part in "A Most Excellent Race" on June 26.
"Oh she really loves it," said Kristanko. "She likes the counselors she's always talking about that they went swimming or they went hiking."
Deborah Osgood, Vice President of Development and Marketing told newsnet5.com "A Most Excellent Race" is a key fundraiser, allowing more northeast Ohio families to be involved.
The race has walkers, we've got runners, we've got family activities," said Osgood. "So it's one of those events that allows us to provide many of our services here at Camp Cheerful, regardless of a family's ability to pay."
Connie Boros, Vice President of Recreation and Sports explained a growing number of children and young adults are getting involved.
"We serve over 1600 individuals in our recreation program, which is part of what the race supports," said Boros.
"What's great is a lot individuals like Jenna participate in multiple programs. She's now an adult, she comes to our adult program, but she still comes to our overnight camps."
The events award ceremony is set for 11 AM at the Beaumont School running track.
