Independence Blue Cross is the “Transformation” presenting sponsor of the third annual Color 5K Run and Walk, which raises funds to combat the opioid and heroin epidemic.

This year’s Color 5K will take place at Everhart Park in West Chester on Saturday, Nov. 10. Registration begins at 8 AM and the race starts at 9 AM. Click here for details of the event and to register in advance.

Chester County remains committed to tackling the opioid and heroin epidemic through intensive health, education, treatment, and law enforcement measures, coordinated by the Overdose Prevention Task Force. The Color 5K attracted more than 1,000 participants and supporters last year and raised $38,000.

“We thank Independence Blue Cross for joining us for this year’s Color 5K, making a significant contribution that will truly help us as we continue to raise funds and awareness to fight this addiction crisis,” said Michelle Kichline, Chair of the Chester County Commissioners. “I also want to note the amazing community support that we have received for the Color 5K over the past two years, which regrettably proves that there are many people in Chester County who have been affected by this epidemic.”

“At Independence Blue Cross, we are proud to support the comprehensive and compassionate work being done in Chester County to tackle the opioid epidemic,” said Dr. Richard L. Snyder, Independence Blue Cross Chief Medical Officer. “This crisis is one of the greatest health challenges of our times, and as the region’s largest health insurer, we are committed to supporting organizations and solutions that help our communities and the thousands of people affected by opioid and heroin abuse.”

Funds raised through this year’s Color 5K will continue to support the innovative program called COPE (Community Outreach and Prevention Education) that is specific to Chester County. Through this program, opioid overdose survivors who are being treated in the emergency room at Chester County Hospital and Brandywine Hospital can meet with a certified recovery specialist within an hour of coming into the ER. The recovery specialist engages with the overdose survivor and provides personal support and a direct connection to treatment and recovery services.

“Chester County law enforcement and public officials are continuing our all-out offensive against the opioid epidemic,” said Chester County District Attorney Tom Hogan. “We arrest drug dealers, seek treatment for addicts, build support for families, and educate our community. The annual Color 5K is one more valuable tool that Chester County uses as we join the rest of the nation in fighting this battle to save lives.”

Sponsorship opportunities for the Chester County Color 5K are available at many levels for companies and individuals. For more information, contact Rebecca Brain, Chester County Communications Coordinator, at 610-344-6279 or e-mail rbrain@chesco.org.

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