United Way of Midland County will be hosting the second annual Community Colors 5k. This unique colorful race celebrates healthy living and the power of giving, advocating and volunteering in the community.  The fun begins on September 13th at 10:00 a.m., starting at Northwood University and following the rail trail to the Tridge.

Each person begins the race in a white LIVE UNITED T-shirt and will be doused with color along the way as they learn about the needs of our community, the great impact taking place and ways they can get engaged. There will also be Ambassadors of Fun to keep racers engaged with fun games and activities until they step up to the start line.

“We will once again welcome our beloved mascots to join the fun,” shared race committee member Lovisa Golder. “They will be encouraging the racers at the halfway mark with hugs and high-fives.”

This community- and family-friendly event is more about celebrating and less about your finish time. With no winners or official times, the Community Colors 5k caters to everyone. You can run, jog, walk, wheel and even push strollers through. The start of the race will once again take place at Northwood University, with a color fest ending at Chippewassee Park.

The FREE Kids Color Obstacle Course allows kids ages 9 and under to challenge themselves while getting covered with color. This free event begins at 9:00 a.m. on the Northwood campus. Pre-registration is required to receive the free T-shirt.

“The race route will be a little different this year,” shared Holly Miller, Vice President of United Way of Midland County. “We will still be running through the beautiful Northwood University campus and down the Rail Trail, but are keeping more campus roads open to make getting in and out easier for spectators and families coming for the Obstacle Course.”

Don’t want to run or walk? Spectators will help welcome participants with a burst of color at the start line or the finish line. Packets of color will be available for purchase for just a dollar. You can also lend your help as a volunteer by visiting www.govolunteernow.org.

The cost is just $20 per person or $50 for a family (immediate members only), with $5 per individual and $10 per family being invested into building a stronger community. Registration is open now through August 31st, or until the race is full. Registration includes an event T-shirt, water bottle and color to throw! No refunds will be offered and the race will take place rain or shine.

“Be sure to register early,” shared Ann Fillmore, Executive Director of United Way of Midland County. “We have increased the maximum number of participants from 1,800 to 3,000 this year, but sold out a month before the race last year.”

To register, visit www.unitedwaymidland.org or pick up a registration form throughout the community, including United Way and at the Midland Community Center. For race questions call United Way at (989) 631-3670; for registration questions contact Jodi at (989) 832-7937.

You won’t want to miss this exciting community event sponsored by: Chemical Bank, The Dow Chemical Company and Dow Corning Corporation.