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Runners, walkers and neighbors invited to Respond Now’s 5K on Sept. 22

Spaces are still available for Respond Now’s annual 5K Walk/Run for Hunger on Sept. 22 at Bicentennial Park in Olympia Fields.
 
Sue Perkins of Flossmoor, a longtime board member at the social service agency, called the annual event an easy and fun way for community members, advocates and supporters old and new to help combat poverty in their neighborhoods.
 
This major fundraiser for Respond Now is a big event “because it supports all the services we provide, and it helps get our name out in the South Suburbs,” she added.
 
Respond Now works to alleviate hunger and prevent homelessness for people at risk in more than 22 Chicago south suburban communities.
 
Registration is $25 in advance at raceroster.com or $30 on race day. Packet pickup and race day registration begins at 8 a.m. at Bicentennial Park, 3401 203rd St. The race starts at 9 a.m.

“It’s a scenic route and a nice time of year,” Perkins said. “Some runners use (the 5K) to get ready for the Chicago Marathon.”
 

Two features new this year will make for a particularly festive event. Participants can enjoy fresh tacos, as part of the registration fee, and samba music with beats provided by the Chicago Drum Battery. 
 
“They play street festivals and block parties, and the music definitely has a dance groove to it,” said Carl Wolf, executive director at Respond Now.
 
Volunteers are needed. High school students can use the 5K to fulfill community service hours. Volunteers can contact Perkins at [email protected].
 
The 5K is Respond Now’s only fundraising event. Supporters unable to attend can make a donation online at respondnow.org. Additional information is at 708-755-4357.

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