United Way of Porter County (UWPC) hosted its 4th annual Valparaiso Half Marathon on November 10. All proceeds raised at the event went to UWPC’s Power of Youth Council. The student-led council is a United Way initiative that is comprised of Porter County high school students who raise funds to support youth self-esteem programs.
The students in the Power of Youth Council were involved in the entire planning process of the race. Students secured monetary sponsorships, recruited volunteers and helped out on the race day. This year, the students’ efforts raised a record amount of money, which will allow them to make a significant impact in youth self-esteem programs.
In total, 477 runners participated in the race, and 150 volunteers were present at the event. After the race, runners had the opportunity to attend the race post-party that offered a variety of donated food from Blackbird Café, Hooligan’s, County Line Orchard, Family Express, Porter Health, Valpo Velvet, Harvest Circle Workshop and hot chocolate and coffee from the American Red Cross of Porter County. “I really enjoyed the race and will most certainly be back again and will spread the word to my other running friends! Thanks again for the great hospitality!” said Jon Gill, a race participant from St. John, IN.
Sponsors of the event included Buynak's Clinical Research, Strack & Van Til and The Times (in-kind) at the Premier level, Jim and Bev Hutton at the Gold level, McAfee Animal Hospital, 1st Source Bank, Flexeon Rehabilitation, Avalon Springs, Smith Ready Mix and Rusthead Design at the Silver level and Culver's of Valparaiso, Au Natural, Chester, Inc., Computer Education Institute, Lakeside Wealth Management, Kennedy Mazda, Bulk Transport and Simko Signs at the Bronze level.
For more information or to find out how you can be a sponsor at next year’s Valpo Half Marathon, please contact Mackenna Dickt at mackenna@unitedwaypc.org.