The Arc of Chester County, a nonprofit serving individuals with disabilities and their families, will host a virtual one-mile walk and 5K run on Sunday, May 17. The Arc Bubble Walk, Run & Fun Event Presented by CTDI is The Arc’s largest fundraiser of the year. The organization is relying heavily on community and corporate support following the devastating financial impact of COVID-19. Event proceeds and corporate sponsorship will aid as a lifeline to keep The Arc’s vital programming and services afloat.

“We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with CTDI,” said Jeanne Meikrantz, Executive Director of The Arc of Chester County. “With the support of CTDI and the rest of our generous sponsors and loyal supporters, we can make sure no one is left behind during this pandemic. Now more than ever, families, children, and adults with disabilities are relying on our supports and services.”

Last year, the event raised $100,000 for much-needed services and supports and welcomed nearly 350 runners and walkers to West Goshen Community Park. Adults and kids alike walked through bubble stations along a one-mile course or ran a 5K through adjacent neighborhoods. This year’s decision to go virtual gives runners and walkers the freedom to support The Arc’s services and fundraising needs from the safety of their own neighborhood. The goal is for hundreds of walkers and runners to virtually set out together at 9 AM on Sunday to complete a mile or 5K on a course of their choosing.

“We have a long-standing partnership with The Arc of Chester County, and it’s a cause that’s close to our heart,” said Leo Parsons, Chief Executive Officer of CTDI. “The Arc Walk, Run & Fun event is an opportunity to empower kids and adults with disabilities, especially vulnerable during this pandemic. It’s exciting to think about a virtual mass showing of support on May 17, championing loved ones with disabilities.”

A social media campaign will post walk and run achievements throughout the day with hashtags #ArcRunningStrong and #ArcCCWalkingStrong.

Online individual registration is $25 for the one-mile event and $35 for the 5K. Discounted rates apply for group team registration. Each registrant will receive an Arc race package, which includes a customized drawstring bag, t-shirt, and bubbles, to be distributed after the event when conditions are safe.

The Arc is also hosting an online raffle as part of the event. Raffle tickets can be purchased for $25 each until the drawing closes on June 5. Local businesses donated valuable items to be raffled off as prizes, including two wall-mount electric fireplaces, Fitbit Ionic, a wine basket, lottery scratch-off tickets, and a garden-themed gift basket. Click here to purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win one of six valuable prizes.

Funds raised from the raffle and the walk/run will support The Arc’s programs and services, which include Advocacy, Children’s Early Learning, Family Support Services, Employment, and Transportation for individuals with disabilities. The Arc provides a lifetime continuum of services in Chester and Montgomery counties to 3,000 individuals and families a year.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support of our community,” said Meikrantz. “To date, Arc supporters have lifted us up and humbled us with their well wishes and acts of kindness. We’re so grateful for their support and rely on this event for much-needed funding. It’s that generosity and human spirit we’ve counted on for almost 70 years that will help us stay strong, together, during this unprecedented time.”

Click here for more information on The Arc of Chester County or to register for The Arc Virtual Bubble Walk, Run & Fun Event.

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