5K Run and Walk Announced at a Time of Great Need in Pike County

Waverly, OH, October 11, 2012 --(PR.com)-- The Pike County Outreach Council will host its annual 5K Run and Walk on Nov. 17 during Waverly’s Jingle Bell Weekend. The event will take place at Bristol Village, 625 E. 5th St. at 9:00 a.m. Proceeds from the event will go to the Outreach Council, which has served Pike County since 1968.

While the economy may be improving in some parts of Ohio, this is an area that was hit especially hard by the recession of the past few years. According to Executive Director Judy Dixon, “The economy is still really bad in Pike County. Every week, we get new people coming to the pantry for food.”

The Outreach Council benefits the community by feeding the hungry, housing the homeless, keeping people in their homes and assisting in emergencies. Those who have lost their jobs and have very little monthly income rely heavily on the assistance the Outreach Council provides. “We’re really fortunate to have such a great community of people who donate food. However, the demand for assistance has been greater than at any time in recent years. This is why events like the annual 5K Run and Walk are so vital to the continued support of our neighbors.”

Individuals who prefer not to participate but would still like to help can do so by giving food, monetary contributions and even unwanted items from home. These items can be sold in the Outreach Council‘s frequent yard sales, which generated $2,500 this year alone. “Every little bit that people contribute helps,” Judy stated emphatically. “We’re known to not turn down anything.”

Entry fees for the 5K Run and Walk will be $15 to those who register and pay before Nov.3rd and $20 for those who register after this date. The Outreach Council will award prizes to first and second place among men and women separately and recognize winners from each age group.

In addition to the chance to win prizes, all participants will receive a T-Shirt. Those who pre-register with payment will receive their shirt on the day of the race, while those who register later will be notified in the following weeks when their shirt has arrived. Race day registration will take place at 8:15 a.m. on Nov. 17, and the race will begin at 9:00 a.m.

To pre-register, visit pikecountyoutreach.com and click on the 5k link or stop by the Outreach Council’s Bridgehaven office, located at 109 W. Second St. Waverly, Ohio 45690. For more information, contact Judy Dixon at 740-941-4348.