Care Net Owensboro will host its 12th annual Reindeer Run on Dec. 5 at Smothers Park, raising funds to support the nonprofit’s services for women and men in Owensboro and surrounding communities.
The event will feature a 5K run/walk, a children’s dash, and a virtual participation option, welcoming runners and walkers of all ages and abilities.
Established in 2004, Care Net Owensboro is a nonprofit medical clinic that provides free, confidential services to individuals facing unplanned pregnancies or concerns about sexually transmitted infections.
The organization offers pregnancy testing, limited obstetrical ultrasounds, STI testing and treatment, prenatal and parenting education for women and men, and material resources.
Care Net is supported by individuals, businesses, churches, local grants, and two major fundraising events each year, including the Reindeer Run.
Nearly 30 sponsors from the greater Owensboro area help make the event possible. This year’s presenting sponsors are Hausner Hard Chrome, Henry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air, and Southwire.
The Reindeer Dash begins at 7:30 a.m. and features an approximately 100-meter run down Veterans Boulevard for children ages 7 and younger. Participants will run alongside Santa and receive a finisher’s medal.
The 5K Reindeer Run/Walk begins at 8 a.m., with participants encouraged to dress in festive attire. The race route will take participants past Care Net’s medical clinic on 18th Street.
Those unable to attend in person can participate virtually by completing a route of their choosing.
Care Net is also offering a fundraising option this year, allowing individuals and teams to raise additional money for the organization while earning merchandise and prizes.
Funds raised through the event help Care Net continue providing services that address clients’ emotional, social, mental, spiritual, and physical needs.
Registration for the 5K and Virtual Run/Walk is $35 through Nov. 29 and increases to $40 on Nov. 30. Children ages 13 and younger receive a $5 discount.
Care Net Owensboro is located at 425 E. 18th St. in Owensboro. More information about the Reindeer Run and registration is available here.
The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for more than a century.
Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.
To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Kitty Jones, director of membership, at 270-926-1860 or kjones@owensboro.com.
By Morgan Urbanski The Owensboro Times