Paoli Church Will Host 5K Race to Help Syrian Refugees

Building on the success of last year's Race for Refugees, Paoli Presbyterian Church will again host a 5K run/walk this weekend, Sept. 8, to help Syrian families stranded in Middle East refugee camps.

All proceeds from Race for Refugees will go to World Vision, a non-government organization (NGO) that is working in the refugee camps. World Vision provides healthcare, food, emergency supplies, and safe places for children to play and learn.

More than 250 runners and walkers, together with donors, raised $65,000 for World Vision's efforts during the first Race for Refugees in September 2017.

The Rev. Becca Bruner, associate pastor for young adults and families at Paoli Presbyterian, anticipates 400 participants for this year's race, which will be officially timed for 5K runners and will also feature a 5K walk, one-mile walk and Kiddie K, as well as Family Fun Day activities.

"Since the start of Syria's civil war in 2011, more than 5.6 million people have been forced to leave their country, and another 6 million people have been displaced within Syria," Bruner said. "This tidal wave is the greatest humanitarian problem in the world today."

"The community response for last year's Race for Refugees — and the fun we had together — was truly wonderful," Bruner said. "We are looking forward to an even better event this Saturday."

Runners and walkers can register until race time at 9 a.m. The Kiddie K will be at 10. To sign up or make a donation, participants can go to the race website at https://paoliraceforrefugees.com. Registration can be done at the church, 225 S. Valley Road, Paoli, starting at 7:30 a.m.

Family Fun activities, from 10 to noon, will include music, inflatable bounce house, face painting, balloon animals, crafts, hay ride and a fire truck. Popcorn and cotton candy will be free. Chick-fil-A sandwiches and Scoops 'n' Smiles ice cream can be purchased.