The Peru Gazette

This Saturday at 5 p.m., you can have some great family fun, get some exercise and support an important cause. The Run For Jon at Forrence Orchards on Mannix Road in Peru (off Route 22B) is a wonderful community event celebrating its 24th year helping families who have children with serious medical needs.

Each year, the run draw hundreds of spectators and participants of all ages: running, walking or pushing baby joggers. Anyone can participate. There is a kids fun run, a 1.25-mile walk and a 2.5-mile cross-country race. There are team, baby jogger and individual awards (ages 0-70+) and numerous door prizes for participants. Over the 24 years of this event, literally raised tens of thousands of dollars for these deserving and needy families. Last year’s race raised nearly $5,000. Registration begins at 3:30 pm. Due to health regulations, pets are strictly prohibited from the site.

The event started out as an effort to help the family of Jonathan Evans, who died of cancer after a long struggle, deal with the overwhelming expenses associated with their son’s care. The Evans family and many volunteers have continued the event to assist other families in similar circumstances.

The 2.5-mile run is a really great race, sanctioned by USA Track and Field. The course is challenging and beautiful. Some past participants have gone on to the Olympics, national rankings and state championships.