Chili Fest date still to be set

In less than two months, the Lawrence County Board of Developmental Disabilities will kick off DD Awareness Month.

Each year in March, the organization that provides services and support to the county’s children and adults with developmental disabilities hosts several events to bring the community together to raise awareness and just have fun.

The annual balloon launch at Open Door School and Chili Fest in Coal Grove have been staples of awareness month for years, but last year’s inaugural 5K run/walk for developmental disabilities was an unexpected success.

“We were only anticipating maybe just over 100 (participants) and then we got a little over 200,” said Tim Nunnery, public relations and personnel director for the LCBDD. “So it doubled our expectations and we were really happy with last year.”

Last year, registration brought in almost $4,000 and donations through sponsorships brought in an additional $2,000, Nunnery said.

Last year’s race began and ended at Dawson-Bryant High School, but this year, the race will be at The Point industrial park in South Point.

“We won’t have to worry about intersections and blocking traffic so it’s a lot more convenient,” Nunnery said.

Just like for the inaugural race, Ohio University Southern will donate goodie bags for all the racers. Last year, Elite Therapy donated water bottles. Nunnery said the board is looking for other sponsors for the event and donations for door prizes.

The run/walk will be March 10 with a mostly flat course with a few rolling hills. Awards will be given to the overall top male and female, as well as, the top three in each age group.

Pre-registration before Feb. 25 is $15 and guarantees a T-shirt. Registration is $20 the day of the race. Registration will be 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. with the race beginning at 9 a.m. Registration forms are available at www.tristateracer.com

“We hope to keep doing this as long as we can to raise awareness for developmental disabilities,” Nunnery said.

Anyone interested in sponsoring the race or donating prizes should call the LCBDD at 532-7401.

Dates for the balloon launch and chili fest have not been set.