Running forChildren

The Literacy and Learning Center is the clear winner of the Twilight 5K Road Race and Walk – August 19 through Highlands.

Although the Twilight 5K Road Race and Walk is an event attracting all ages for a day of activity and fun, its more serious side involves raising money for a worthy cause. Presently, the August 19 run event is focused on providing funds for The Literacy and Learning Center.

“The mission of The Literacy and Learning Center is to enrich lives and expand the knowledge of children, adults, and families through diverse educational programs that advance literacy in its many forms and to promote lifelong learning, which results in an informed and empowered community,” according to Executive Director Bonnie Potts, who expressed: “The students at The Literacy and Learning Center are referred by the teachers at Highlands School, and because of the generosity of events like this, we are able to provide these programs for free.”

“Proceeds will help with the new Pre-K for The Literacy and Learning Center, which will accommodate approximately 25 children,” said Twilight 5K coordinator Derek Taylor, owner of Highlands Decorating Center. “There is currently a 60-70 child waiting list for Pre-K in Highlands. This will only address part of the Pre-K problem in our community.”

Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Highlands, the Twilight 5K “helps with awareness, provides a healthy event for our community, and brings visitors to town,” pointed out Taylor. “We have been able to raise over $200,000 over the years for Highlands’ children’s education efforts.” Donations are encouraged during the event, but monies to support The Literacy and Learning Center come primarily from Twilight 5K runners’ fees and sponsorships. Besides the new Pre-K program, The Literacy and Learning Center offers a variety of programs, including summer camps, after-school enrichment, Homework Helpers,

Reading Bootcamp, and more.

The Twilight 5K race this year begins at 6:00 P.M. at Kelsey-Hutchinson

Founders Park. Registration and check-in for Twilight 5K will begin at 4:00 P.M. on Saturday, August 19, with early packet pick up the night before the race from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. at Highlands Recreation Park. Parking will be available around the Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park, Highlands Recreation Park, Highlands Ballfield, and Highlands Post Office.

Evening music begins at 7:30 P.M. The race is kid-friendly, with glow toys presented to children who attend. Plus, kids under 5 years of age can participate in the 5K for free and ages 5 to 9 for $10. To sign up, visit: runsignup.com/Race/ NC/Highlands/HighlandsTwilight5K. Contact Taylor at (828) 200-9226 for questions or to sponsor the event.

by Deena Bouknight