Run 2 Summer

Share some good vibes Saturday at Volunteer Park

SPIRIT LAKE — One and all are invited to get in on some good energy at Running Shoes 4kiDs' Run 2 Summer in Spirit Lake's Volunteer Park on Saturday.

"It's going to be beautiful," cross country coach and Running Shoes 4kiDs founder Colene Hotmer said Friday. "We're excited to bring some 'Go Good' energy to Spirit Lake and all the other communities."

In its eighth year, Run 2 Summer is as much of a "fun raiser" as it is fundraiser. Every person who registers will receive a drawing ticket for a chance to win a sweet new pair of running shoes. The proceeds will help purchase running shoes for kids and families who need them, Hotmer said, and some will be donated to nonprofits such as Safe Passage and Cup of Grace. At least 10 pairs of shoes will be awarded to lucky winners between races the day of the event.

Hotmer said it’s important for people to enjoy a healthy event like this and know they're not alone.

"People have come together, and some people have fallen apart," she said. "It's my hope we can bring the community together for a fundraiser for all, but at the same time create an event where we're outside getting our healthy energy in."

The #GoGood movement Hotmer has been promoting for more than a year encourages good behavior in children as well as adults.

"Our society needs interaction and to get out and to be active, especially these kids," said Hotmer, of Athol.

Running Shoes 4kiDs partners with Lakeland schools to encourage kids to be good citizens. They're awarded opportunities to win new shoes for exhibiting kindness, accountability and other positive traits. Teachers and counselors keep track of these good kids while considering who would benefit most from the program.

Hotmer is spreading this mentality beyond the schools and into North Idaho communities. Her hopes are to "encourage a #GoGood movement so there's positive energy instead of all this crazy negative energy."

"You can have three choices in this world — you can be all sour, or you can be glum, or you can go good," she said. "The choice is yours."

Social distancing will be respected during Run 2 Summer, so people will be expected to maintain space. Races will be staggered, hand sanitizer stations will be available and public restrooms with soap and water will be open.

Teams are encouraged. Prizes will be awarded for the biggest team, the fastest team and the team with the best vibe, such as flair, costuming or matching outfits. Teams of 25 or more are eligible to earn 25% back from their race proceeds and teams of 50 or more are eligible to earn 50% back from their race proceeds and donate it to a charity or organization of their choice.

Hotmer said also this year, any age can run, and age-based awards will be presented. Races include quarter and half miles as well as one mile and 5K.

More than 20 vendors will be on site, including a portable petting zoo.

Gates open at 9 a.m. The quarter-mile run begins at 10 a.m.

Registration is $15 for youths and $20 for adults.

Volunteer Park is at 5601 Jefferson St., Spirit Lake.

Kids are also encouraged to submit short videos to Running Shoes 4kiDs sharing how they #GoGood.

Info: www.runningshoes4kids.org