Ben's Hope Foundation 5k Run/Walk

The first annual Ben's Hope Foundation 5K Run/Walk took place in downtown Edwardsville on Saturday, November 15, 2008. Amber Boyles, a member of the Raise the Praise choir, was the coordinator for the run/walk. The creation of the fundraiser began in late June and by November there were 344 participants. This event helped to raise even more money for Ben's Hope Foundation benefiting Beverly Farms.

There were many steps to getting this event started. Dealing with the city and getting the run approved was a long process. Appropriate paperwork and permits had to be filled out. In August, there was a presentation given to the City of Edwardsville - Parks and Recreation board, and approval was received in September after being passed at the City Council meeting.

The race could not have gone on without the various sponsors that helped out. The location of the run worked out perfectly for the new Creve Coeur Camera that opened just about a month earlier. They provided photos of every participant involved as they finished the race. SmartWater/VitaminWater was a practical sponsor since their product contains electrolytes specifically made for athletes. Other sponsors involved were National City, Dominos, Anderson Hospital, and Drury Inn. Flyers were sent out and posted around town to advertise and spread the word for the event. Amber did a great job on identifying the appropriate target audiences of the people attending. Overall, $12,563.31 was raised, which exceeded the $10,000 goal that was set.