The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs is launching the inaugural Bell Center 5K and Children’s Run, helping fill the fundraising and community outreach void left after The Mercedes-Benz Marathon was retired last year.
The new run, presented by Daniel Corp. with Trak Shak also sponsoring, will take place March 16.
The center, which provides early intervention therapy for hundreds of children from across Alabama, had partnered with The Mercedes-Benz Marathon for more than 20 years, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for programming.
After the marathon came to an end, officials at the center wanted to continue its BellRunner program that had been part of the marathon event, and thus The Bell Center 5K was born.
Runners and walkers can participate either as a community participant or as a BellRunner. BellRunners are paired with children who receive therapy at the center and raise funds for Bell Center programs on behalf of that child.
Establishing the new run also allows The Bell Center to continue its Children’s Run. In its 22nd year, the event is an opportunity for children attending therapy at the center to cross the finish line in celebration of the progress they have made over the year.
All proceeds from the event go to supporting The Bell Center’s mission to maximize the potential of children ages birth to 3 years of age who are at risk for developmental delay.
“We’re so excited to host our inaugural Bell Center 5K on March 16,” said Jeannie Colquett, executive director of the center. “The Bell Center has seen substantial enrollment growth in recent years, and proceeds from the 5K will help us continue to provide the best in early intervention services to the children we serve.”
At the center, infants and toddlers receive specialized therapy from transdisciplinary teams, which include a physical therapist, an occupational therapist, a speech/language pathologist and an early childhood special education teacher. Programs at the center are designed to promote growth in gross and fine motor skills, as well as language, cognition, self-help and social skills.
The event begins at 8 a.m. at The Bell Center, at 1700 29th Court South. The route for the 5K takes runners and walkers on a scenic route through the heart of Homewood, winding by Homewood Park, down residential streets and past local landmarks. The Children’s Run, a 50-yard dash, follows the 5K.
Those interested in being a BellRunner, participating in The Bell Center 5K, or wanting to learn more about The Bell Center can visit thebellcenter.org or email Elise Mayfield at [email protected].
