“It was amazing to see CBHA and our community come together like
this”
You connected to the cause, to our area children and to our community.
On September 29th more than 750 of you participated in our first 5K Color
Run: CBHA Run for a Cause. We were overwhelmed by the community’s
response. With 550+ walkers, runners and strollers, as well as dozens
of CBHA staff and 200+ volunteers, we exceeded our goals in terms of funds
raised and community involvement.
“We had a great turnout,” said CBHA Chief Executive Officer,
Nieves Gomez. “It took a tremendous effort from CBHA staff to put
this event together and it was all worth it!”
Each color used in the first annual Run for a Cause represented a chronic
childhood condition affecting children in the community. Special needs
included: Asthma (pink), Down syndrome (blue), Autism (orange), Spinal
Muscular Atrophy (purple), Childhood Diabetes (yellow), Behavioral Health
(green), and celebrating all children with specials needs (red). Learning
about each condition proved to be educational, but also inspiring, as
the strength and determination of the families of children with special
needs was so evident.
“I had the opportunity to meet Harper Ramos, a 5-year-old child with
SMA Type 2 and his mom, Crystal, who really connected all this to purpose,”
said Nieves Gomez. “I learned that Harper has a twin, Hendrix, who
also was diagnosed with SMA Type 2. Supporting families that face these
types of challenges every day is just the right thing to do.”
With the weather cooperating, participants turned out in even greater numbers
than had originally signed up. Everyone enjoyed the thoughtful planning
and celebratory mindset that was central to making this event happen.
“It was a very amazing experience to be part of something like this.
I’m very proud of everyone who made this possible,” said Tenchy
Lara-Garza, Run for a Cause participant. “It was so much fun,”
echoed Jeanette Carmona, another participant. From face-painting to Photoboxx
pics, soccer to snow cones, there was plenty of fun to be had —
all while raising money for a great cause.
“It was so amazing to see CBHA and our community come together like
this. Everyone really got behind this event. Many community members and
several Othello High School students were part of the run as volunteers!”
said Kristen Stevens, CBHA Health and Wellness Director.
“This type of event is what community is all about. We intend to
host a 2019 event — we are confident it will become a successful
tradition,” said CBHA CEO Nieves Gomez. Others seem to heartily
agree: “CBHA, thanks for the totally cool Color Run! You all did
a great job. Organized, friendly, great cause and family friendly. Loved
it! Thanks you!” said Stacey Hillman.
Thanks to the community for turning out and to our generous partners, not
only was CBHA able to make a considerable donation to support research
for cure and treatment of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), but CBHA will
also be able to provide support for several families and their children
with special needs.
CBHA Chief Operations Officer, Blake Barthelmess, was also pleased with
the perfect combination of activity, involvement and education. “We
were very excited to celebrate wellness in our community with the Run
for a Cause event and appreciated the incredible turnout. This level of
participation is an important part of raising awareness in our communities.”
This event wouldn’t have been the cause for celebration that it was
without you.
Your participation, your excitement and your support for children with
special needs is clear.
“I can’t wait for next year’s Color Run,” said
Kristen Stevens. “It was that much fun!”
The 5K Color Run: CBHA Run for a Cause was a fantastic opportunity for
community members to get onto the new campus in Othello. Since opening
the new location in the fall of 2017, CBHA leadership has continued to
seek opportunities to bring together community members.
In addition to more typical educational classes for patients, CBHA has
also offered lunch and learn events on mental health and self-care, a
Mother’s Day celebration event in May, and a summertime health fair
for families. Health and wellness classes like yoga and Zumba are also
offered as part of an ongoing wellness effort aligned to the TotalYou
health program.