(Courtesy of Makor) “This day is EVERYTHING for our family. Every year, I take all of my kids, so they can run together with their sister and have this tremendous bonding experience as a family. The whole family, together. Just seeing the look on my daughter’s face when we’re all there, it’s beyond words. You can’t know until you’re there.”—Mother of a resident.
After a difficult year for many, Makor members are excitedly preparing to join their families at the 5th Annual 5K Event taking place Sunday, October 17 in Marine Park, Brooklyn.
The event will be a rare opportunity for families to have fun with their children since the pandemic began. All Makor residents, regardless of their ability, are encouraged to participate together with their loved ones and caregivers—making it a collaborative and exciting morning for all.
It will be a day of fun for the whole family. With activities and highlights for kids, there will be something for everyone to get excited about. Each runner will be sponsored with $180 by a sponsor who once worked as a direct support professional and has stayed involved with the agency. Swag bags will be given to each participant and will include thematically designed caps, t-shirts and fanny packs in addition to delicious post-run snacks.
The event is critical to opening up access to a life experience many of us take for granted: walking for a charitable cause with the people we love the most. For Makor residents and families, this day means the world to them. With limited opportunities for them to engage in similar events, it will be a day that lives in their hearts forever. A day of fun, love and belonging.
This is key to Makor’s mission as a lifespan organization—where members are given the support and opportunities they need to lead fuller, more meaningful lives. Founded in 1978 as Women’s League Community Residences, Makor Disability Services strives to meet the residential, therapeutic, social, medical, developmental, and spiritual needs of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities—from the moment they enter this world until they leave it.
The 5th Annual 5K will resume for the first time in person since the pandemic. With the health of Makor families in mind, last year’s event was moved to a virtual platform. While it was wonderful seeing everyone’s faces online, nothing can replace the sheer joy of standing side-by-side with your father, mother, sister, brother or best friend.
Life has been increasingly difficult for everyone this past year. This has been especially true for people with disabilities, who thrive on connection and routine. Being isolated from their families and unable to engage in the activities they love makes this day even more essential to their overall happiness and wellbeing.
To register or donate, please visit www.Run4makor.org.
