The Kiwanis Club of Glendale will host a Crohn’s and Colitis 5K Run/Walk fundraising event at Forest Park to raise funds for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America on Saturday, June 17.
The 5k Run/Walk will take place at 9 a.m. sharp, rain or shine, at Victory Field and Forest Park Drive.
According to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America, Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. People who live with Crohn’s disease typically experience complications with their GI tract and suffer from related complications.
Joel Harris, the New York Kiwanis governor, made the fundraising efforts for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation the focus for the year, with the goal of donating $10,000 total.
Teresa Donahue, a previous club president and current member of the Glendale Kiwanis Club, said the focus from the governor also comes from his personal life, having a son who has Crohn’s disease.
“We’re hoping for a great turnout,” said Donahue, “This is the first time doing an event like this, so it’s not going to have a lot of bells and whistles, but we’re hoping to raise a nice amount to contribute to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation and increase awareness about the diseases.”
Donahue has continued to serve as a member of the Glendale Kiwanis since June 2018. She hopes that more community members participate in the event and the club is able to reach its donation goal.
“I’m amazed and I’m excited for the foundation by the level of interest that we’re getting. But, you know, I’m also sad to realize how many people are affected by these diseases,” Donahue added.
Registration for runners and walkers costs $10. For more information, or to register, contact Teresa Donahue at (917) 697-1038 or email tdonahue13@gmail.com. 
