Inaugural Santa Fun Run set Dec. 4 to benefit Children and Families First
The rumors are absolutely true. Santa Claus will be strolling right down Coastal Highway in the inaugural Santa Fun Run set from noon to 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 4, in Dewey Beach to benefit Children and Families First. Throughout the area, helper elves have already begun building their teams, collecting donations and dreaming up spectacular costumes for event day. But there is plenty of time for everyone to get on the nice list and walk for a good cause.
Children and Families First is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children struggling with challenges get the vital programs and services they need to grow up to be thriving, self-sufficient adults. "Our client needs continue to grow throughout Sussex County, and we need to bring awareness as well as funding to that fact," said Development Coordinator Laura Rimmer. This year, Children and Families First has set the goal of recruiting 500 participants and raising $20,000, all of which will go directly towards support programs in Sussex County.
Presented by The Starboard Restaurant, PNC Bank, Clear Channel and a number of other sponsors, the Santa Fun Run festivities will start and end at The Starboard Restaurant, which guarantees a good time will be had by all. Owner Steve "Monty" Montgomery, is well known for his generosity and support of local charities, especially those involving children. "We're excited to host this event with Children and Families First and grateful to be able to use The Starboard's name to help bring both the event and the agency the attention they deserve," said Montgomery.
Not to be mistaken for a running event, The Santa Fun Run is a one-mile fundraising walk for all ages and abilities that will be chock full of festive entertainment for the entire family. "Although the idea behind why we are raising this money is very serious, the actual event most certainly is not," said Rimmer. Participants are encouraged to get groups of friends, family members, co-workers and neighbors together to register as a team. All participants who raise a minimum of $100 each will earn a 2016 commemorative Every Child Deserves to Believe T-shirt.
As the only real competition in the Santa Fun Run is who has the most fun "claus-ing for a cause" the prizes and recognition will match the theme, including: Largest Friends and Family Team, Largest Corporate Team, Highest Fundraiser, Best Dressed and of course Best Sleigh (stroller or wagon).
The winter wonderland after party will be chock full of children's games and crafts, fun photo booth type opportunities, music and of course an official Santa Claus to hear children's wish lists and take photos. No celebration would be complete without a variety of food and drink. Thanks to donations from Big Fish, Casapulla's and a few other locations there will be plenty to nosh on post walk. The Starboard will also have their kitchen and Shark Tank bar open for those age 21 and over who are wishing to purchase a celebratory holiday cocktail.
The deadline to register online is noon, Wednesday, Nov. 30. To register online, go to www.tinyurl.com/cffsanta. Registration will also be available the morning of the event, but at a higher rate so don't be a cotton headed ninny muggins, register early.
For more information including sponsorship opportunities, contact Laura Rimmer at 302-604-6277 or laura.rimmer@cffde.org or go to www.cffde.org.
