We are a group of local Dallas runners who want to celebrate the new year and also help a local charity. We have chosen to support Marathon Kids.
This all began in December 2004 after coming off a high of finishing my very first marathon. I wanted to enjoy a last run for the year and there were no official races on New Years Eve. So, I gathered a few running buddies and the first Loop the Lake Run was born.
In 2006, it occurred to me that we runners could have fun at the end of the year and benefit other people at the same time. Since I have always struggled with obesity, especially as a child, I wanted to do something that would help children who were like me. I teamed up with Beth Crider and we gave away t-shirts to everyone who made a donation. All money raised we gave away to Marathon Kids. We raised $1,300 in 2006.
Since then, we have raised over $200,000, all donated to Marathon Kids. Marathon Kids is a not for profit group working through the local school districts in Dallas and other Texas communities.
In the Dallas area alone, we have over 11,000 kids who want to participate in the Marathon Kids program and need funding. Your donation will help keep the Marathon Kids program free for kids in our community.
Preventing childhood obesity is important to me because it affects over 9 million children ages 6-19. Childhood obesity is a leading cause of Type II Diabetes in children and later, adults. Children who are obese have a greater chance of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, asthma and liver disease. Over 70% of overweight teens become overweight or obese adults in this country.
Please like us on Facebook. There you will be able to find the latest updates for our upcoming event.