Version of the story was published in The Sylva Herald, April 1 edition
The first Annual 5K run/walk for the Nonprofit Southwestern Child Development Commission in Western North Carolina started at 8 a.m. on Saturday, March 28 at the Southwestern Community College Bookstore.
The fundraising run was $35, buying you a fun atmosphere to get out and moving with family or friends.
The top finishers, male and female, were awarded a loaded Easter basket by the Southwestern Child Development Commission (SDC).
The fastest three male and female finishers in each age group won an award as well. Age group check-ins ranged from 9 and under to 70 and above.
There were 51 finishers in the race. The top three were Jeren Nash with a time of 20:49, Phillip Ropp at 25:38 and Aurelius Medina finishing at 26:31.
The family friendly race supported fundraising for the restoration and preservation of the Southwestern Child Development’s historic building.
A total of $457 has been donated through this 5K, for the preservation and restoration project.
The building was originally a school, from kindergarten through high school, until the mid-20th century. It now serves as the main office for the Commission.
The old school building is now a historic landmark, built between 1936-1938 in Webster by the Works Progress Administration.
The landmark is an example of the impressive craftsmanship of the WPA, featuring the use of river rock in its facade.
The SDC partners with families, communities and early educators to provide children with affordable and quality early childhood care.
This is the only regional childcare organization in Western NC that focuses on the care and education of children. Providing family resources including literacy, breastfeeding, family health and wellness, and many more.
The donations from the Bunny Run will not only preserve a part of the community’s history but also provide support to this organization so they can continue their vital work for the Western North Carolina.
