SOUTHWICK – The 1ST Run Walk Southwick will take place Memorial Day weekend on May 27 at Whalley Park. The race starts at 11:30 a.m., with registration at 11 a.m. The races consist of a 1K kids run that costs $25. There is also a 2.5K walk for $30, a 5K run for $35, and a 10K run for $45.
Trish Labieniec, who created and is organizing the event, is a Southwick resident and works for Nurse Anesthesia Professional Services, decided that she wanted to make an impact outside of her job.
“On the side, I felt like I wanted to do something to give back to the community,” said Labieniec.
Run Walk Southwick is a non-profit event and all of the proceeds will be going towards the two non-profit organizations that Labieniec has chosen to be included in this year’s event. The two organizations are the Southwick Civic Fund and Team Justice.
Trish Labieniec, who is organizing Run Southwick, poses with Kevin Bishop and Joe Deedy, who are the founders of the two non-profits that Run Southwick will be donating the proceeds to. (Photo by Greg Fitzpatrick)
The Southwick Civic Fund, which was founded by Joe Deedy, is a non-profit that creates events that give back to the communities of Southwick, Tolland, and Granville. Team Justice is an organization that helps mentor youth motocross riders and helps them stay drug and alcohol free, while helping them achieve their goals. Kevin Bishop is the President of Team Justice.
Both Deedy and Bishop are appreciative of Labieniec’s decision to choose their respective organizations.
“It’s a wonderful event,” said Deedy. “The funds will be used on our continued mission to work with the youth in our community.”
Deedy added that he may use some of the money towards popular events that he puts together, including the Southwick Fireworks, a Thanksgiving meal, and the Christmas toy drive.
For this year’s event, there are a number of sponsors that have already committed. The sponsors include Moolicious, Westfield River Brewing, Harvest Hill Photography, Chamberlain Construction, Nurse Anesthesia Professional Services, Full Plate Fitness, Dive Anesthesia, My Dopa Fit, and Jacquier Realty Group, which is a platinum sponsor. If anyone would like to be a vendor, the cost is $100.
People can visit runsouthwick.com to register. Labieniec also added that nurses and first responders will get 50% off registration.
