Sowing Seeds of Hope hosted a 5K and One Mile Fun Run in on Saturday, September 26. Due to safety concerns, the event was primarily held in a virtual format. Registered participants were free to choose a date, time, and location that is convenient for their schedule. An official event kickoff was presented online at 8:00 am on September 26, and a few participants gathered in person on the Perry County Courthouse Square for the socially distanced event.

Proceeds from the 5K and Fun Run are being used to fund Sowing Seeds of Hope’s ongoing children’s programs, which address social-emotional development, academic progress, and physical health.

In addition to raising money for children’s activities, this event is also designed to raise awareness about childhood obesity. One of every five children in Alabama is obese. Childhood obesity has been linked with later development of Type II diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease, liver and kidney failure, infertility, sleep apnea, orthopedic problems, and cancer. In most cases, childhood obesity can be prevented or corrected with changes in diet and exercise.

We had a total of 92 registered participants from nine different states, and we hope to make the 5K an annual event. Click here to see a few of our favorite photos from the day.