I feel like I'm going to start being cliche if I continue to say, "today was a fun one!" because they have all been so much fun so far.
But hey, today... was a fun one! I got to spend it in the most beautiful horse park--not that Keeneland wasn't wonderful on Thursday--with some new friends in 72 degree weather in the Kentucky sunshine.
But hey, today... was a fun one! I got to spend it in the most beautiful horse park--not that Keeneland wasn't wonderful on Thursday--with some new friends in 72 degree weather in the Kentucky sunshine.
I met Christy Tussey of Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky and the race director for the big day. This was the second annual event held at the stunning Kentucky Horse park (how have I never been there?!) that ended up with a turnout of 316 runners between the 5K and fun run. Though the prices varied for registration, she said she is estimating that this brought in about $20,000 to go back to PCAK. Clearly the second year was wildly successful! Since I wasn't at all familiar with this organization that clearly does wonderful things for kids and families, she gave me a run-down of all the services that PCAK provides: literature in various businesses and other locations, training for medical personnel, Internet safety kits for children, and a variety of information on how to detect child abuse, special programs for fathers, as well as how violence between parents/partners can also affect a child that may not be being abused him/herself.
She was quick to put me to work with the guys at the Lexington Legends baseball table and game area, where I would be helping watch over the bouncy house and the giant inflatable ski ball (I'm having flashbacks to the bouncy house on Friday with the Boys and Girls Club!) as well as stand awkwardly around the mascot, who isn't really supposed to talk, handing out squishy stress-reliever mustaches (the team's logo).
There were many other tables and events for the kids and parents to enjoy: a coloring station, a fun pick-a-prop photo booth, a fire truck and firefighters, some more costumed characters.
Perhaps the most entertaining event was the performance put on by kids attending a local karate school. I took several videos, but this is the only one that would load due to it being short! The performance closed with information on how to attend classes as well as how any parents interested in their children taking self defense courses can sign up.
With all of the fun going on, it was easy to forget that there was some running that needed to happen! First was the 1/2 mile kids' fun run.....
And then the main event! The 5K kicked off and I was actually able to run it after the kids' play area died down a bit. This is one of the most scenic little courses I have run yet. I may have run off course to check out the Rolex stadium to snap some pictures!
After the race, runners were treated to some yummy snacks, awards, and an extremely generous set of door prizes.
Day 6: A success!!
More about Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky:
PCAK is the only statewide non-profit organization committed to preventing the abuse and neglect of Kentucky's children. The agency has a variety of programs and services aimed at reducing and preventing child abuse and neglect. Child abuse and neglect CAN be prevented, but not without your help.
How does PCAK work to prevent the abuse and neglect of Kentucky’s children? Comprehensively, by developing and promoting effective strategies and programs, through community involvement, public education and advocacy. Efforts are centered on recognizing the inherent potential and goodness of children, strengthening families and empowering the community to become involved with the mission.
Since the agency’s beginning, great strides have been achieved. Today, more people are aware of the signs and symptoms of child abuse and neglect, more people are reporting child abuse, more communities are engaged in public awareness efforts and more parents and guardians are changing the ways they talk to and treat their children.
Prevention is the only cure for child abuse. That's why PCAK’s work -- public awareness campaigns, parent education and support programs, professional training and technical assistance, and community-based prevention programs -- are all focused on preventing child abuse and neglect. Please click through the agency website to read more about the programs and services and how you can make a difference in a child’s life.
Get Involved!
Volunteer
There are many opportunities to get involved. You can volunteer at an event, serve on the Board of Directors, assisting with various programs offered, Last year, volunteers for PCAK donated more than 8,165 hours of service valued at an estimated $159,308. Your service makes a HUGE impact.
Donate
Click to donate if you would like to support PCAK but may not have the time to offer.
Host a "Party for Prevention"
I LOVE this idea. If you like having a dinner night, wine night, even an ice cream social for the neighborhood kids... why not ask for a small donation in addition, and donate to a cause? This is a great and fun way to give back to PCAK for something you may already be doing in your social circle anyhow.
Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky
801 Corporate Drive
Suite 120
Lexington, KY 40503
Phone: 1-800-CHILDREN
Office: 859-225-8879
Email: [email protected]
PCAK is the only statewide non-profit organization committed to preventing the abuse and neglect of Kentucky's children. The agency has a variety of programs and services aimed at reducing and preventing child abuse and neglect. Child abuse and neglect CAN be prevented, but not without your help.
How does PCAK work to prevent the abuse and neglect of Kentucky’s children? Comprehensively, by developing and promoting effective strategies and programs, through community involvement, public education and advocacy. Efforts are centered on recognizing the inherent potential and goodness of children, strengthening families and empowering the community to become involved with the mission.
Since the agency’s beginning, great strides have been achieved. Today, more people are aware of the signs and symptoms of child abuse and neglect, more people are reporting child abuse, more communities are engaged in public awareness efforts and more parents and guardians are changing the ways they talk to and treat their children.
Prevention is the only cure for child abuse. That's why PCAK’s work -- public awareness campaigns, parent education and support programs, professional training and technical assistance, and community-based prevention programs -- are all focused on preventing child abuse and neglect. Please click through the agency website to read more about the programs and services and how you can make a difference in a child’s life.
Get Involved!
Volunteer
There are many opportunities to get involved. You can volunteer at an event, serve on the Board of Directors, assisting with various programs offered, Last year, volunteers for PCAK donated more than 8,165 hours of service valued at an estimated $159,308. Your service makes a HUGE impact.
Donate
Click to donate if you would like to support PCAK but may not have the time to offer.
Host a "Party for Prevention"
I LOVE this idea. If you like having a dinner night, wine night, even an ice cream social for the neighborhood kids... why not ask for a small donation in addition, and donate to a cause? This is a great and fun way to give back to PCAK for something you may already be doing in your social circle anyhow.
Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky
801 Corporate Drive
Suite 120
Lexington, KY 40503
Phone: 1-800-CHILDREN
Office: 859-225-8879
Email: [email protected]