California State University, Stanislaus welcomes the fourth annual Grace Bishop Memorial Scholarship Run to the campus on April 28. Runners have the option to compete in the 1-mile, 5K or 10K.
The run is hosted by Creative Alternatives, Inc. and the CSU Stanislaus Track & Field team. They are partnering together to raise money for the Grace Bishop Memorial Fund. Last year the run raised $9,100 and the goal for this year is to raise $15,000.
Creative Alternatives, Inc. is a non-profit human services corporation that was founded in 1976. It operates out of offices located in Turlock and Merced.
The mission is “to provide a nurturing environment for troubled children” (creative-alternatives.org). The organization offers many counseling and evaluation services in order to assist individuals.
The Grace Bishop Memorial Fund was created in 1998 in memory of Grace Bishop.
She was a founding member of Creative Alternatives’ Board of Directors who helped carry out the vision of assisting young adults with their transition into the community.
Through this fund, scholarships are given to individuals chosen from the Foster Family Program, nonpublic schools and Creative Alternatives Group Home Program.
Applications are reviewed and interviews conducted in April, followed by a scholarship ceremony in May.
The Grace Bishop Memorial Scholarship Run provides an opportunity to give back to the community and have fun while doing it.
CSU Stanislaus alumni Kayla Sanchez encourages people to get involved, even if they aren’t avid runners.
“[My experience with charity runs] has always been super fun and I’d definitely recommend it to people,” Sanchez said.
“These runs are based more on having fun, and include walkers of all ages. It’s also a great way to exercise even if you don’t like to run.”
The race is split into men’s and women’s divisions. Pre-register to secure a cheaper price: $20 for the 1-mile and $25 for the 5K or 10K. Pre-registration for participants under 18 is $15 for the 1-mile and $20 for the 5K or 10K. Those who pre-register by April 15 are guaranteed a free t-shirt.
Participants can register at warriorathleticscamps.com/grace-bishop-memorial-run.cfm. While runners are encouraged to pre-register, sign ups are also available on the day of the race for $25 for the 1-mile and $30 for the 5K or 10K.
Check-in on race day starts at 7:15 a.m. in front of the Warrior Arena. The 1-mile begins at 8:15 a.m. and the 5K and 10K start at 8:30 a.m.
Individuals or businesses interested in participating as a sponsor can find more information on the website, creative-alternatives.org.
A sponsorship ranges from Bronze ($150), Silver ($300), Gold ($500), Platinum ($1,000) or Diamond ($2,000).
Whether you love to run or are looking to support a great cause, don’t forget to mark your calendar as it is approaching quickly.