Narconon Arrowhead Staff Participate in Be a Hero for Hope Race
Heroes for Hope, a service-based organization, has programs and initiatives to help people during times of difficulty. It encourages other people to participate in giving hope to those in-need. Organization programs focus on providing encouragement to individuals and families experiencing some of the most difficult challenges of life; raising funds, and raising awareness of similar organizations. Heroes for Hope encourages others to become heroes through acts of kindness on behalf of those in need.
Hero for Hope 5K Run
Be a Hero for Hope 5K Run was held on May 30th 2015, in McAlester, Oklahoma. The Choctaw Nation Methamphetamine and Suicide Prevention Initiative, which focuses on suicide and substance abuse issues in the 10 ½ counties comprising the Nation of Choctaw of Oklahoma, was instrumental in sponsoring and ensuring the success of the Be A Hero for Hope 5K run.
The Be a Hero for Hope 5K Run was an exciting, activity-filled, and enjoyable event for participants and attendees. The race began at the Stipe Recreation Center at 801 North 9thStreet in McAlester. Race participants picked-up their packets between 8:30 and 9:30 A.M. the morning of the race. A Costume Contest was held at 9:30 A.M. Before and after the race, attendees were treated to a Stickball demonstration. After the race, and prior to the awards ceremony, attendees enjoyed Zumba and Tae Kwon Do demonstrations. Immediately following the awards ceremony, the SuperKids vs. Villains Dash was a great way to bring the eventful day to a close.
The Choctaw Nation Methamphetamine and Suicide Prevention Initiative Facebook page announced the unfolding race developments. Much dedication, creative planning and organizational skill was evidenced as the Be a Hero for Hope 5K Run evolved.
By mid-March, the race had logged 50 registrations, and more were encouraged. Every child planning to be at the race was promised a superhero cape!
By April 2nd, there were Be a Hero for Hope T-shirts, and a T-shirt giveaway was announced. Race registrations were up to 80, and a drawing for T-shirts to be distributed on race day was promised when registrations reached 100!
By April 16th, registrations reached 107, and the first winner of the special race T-shirt was announced, along with enthusiastic encouragement to keep the race registrations coming for this “free 5K Superhero race”.
The day before the race, The Choctaw Nation Methamphetamine and Suicide PreventionInitiative Facebook page announced the Be a Hero for Hope 5K was on for the next day—May 30th—rain or shine (as long as there was no lightning.)
Be a Hero for Hope Success
The Be a Hero for Hope in support of mental health awareness was run by just over 200 runners, and attended by lots of people from the community. There were community groups with tables and information, sharing resources on community wellness. The importance of physical activity in improving and maintaining mental health was highlighted by the demonstrations of Zumba and Tae Kwon Do skills.
Race results were posted on the Elite Race Company website, an Oklahoma race-timing company. Race finishers were grouped in 5-year age increments. Race medals were awarded to the top three male and top three female finishers in the following age groups:
- 12 years and under.
- Age 13-19 years.
- Age 20-29 years.
- Age30-39 years.
- Age40-49 years.
- And 50 years of age—and up.
Narconon Arrowhead Staff Participates
Staff members of Narconon Arrowhead, the long-term drug and alcohol rehabilitation and education center based in Canadian, Oklahoma, participated in the Be a Hero for Hope 5K run. Amy Bennett Newman, (my wife), and our son, myself and 3 fellow staff members and two of staff-member children sporting Be a Hero for Hope T-shirts participated. Superhero capes and big smiles were worn by all, and Narconon Arrowhead was proud to be a Hero for Help.
