A 5k/1k Walk/Run Celebration of Literacy
Lake Charles, LA— Get ready to wear your running shoes and best Dolly Parton attire because the United Way Southwest Louisiana is thrilled to announce the first-ever "Dolly Run!" Slated for Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at United Way Southwest Louisiana in downtown Lake Charles, this vibrant 5K/1K walk/run is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of community, fitness, and the love of reading! Register online today at unitedwayswla.org/dollyrun.
Why is this event so crucial? In our community, 3,480 children receive free books each month from Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, a program dedicated to fostering a love for reading among our youth. However, with a waiting list of eager children, it’s clear that more support is needed to ensure every child can dive into new adventures through the pages of a book. The Dolly Run aims to raise vital funds to keep this incredible Initiative thriving, ensuring no child awaits their next story.
Participants can expect an unforgettable experience with live music stations featuring Dolly Parton's greatest hits and beloved country classics to keep their spirits high as they navigate the scenic 5K/1K route. And once you cross the finish line, the fun doesn’t stop there! Join us for a delightful mini-country fair featuring delicious food, games, and activities designed to spark creativity and joy in children and adults alike.
Event Highlights Include:
5K/1K Walk/Run: This event is suitable for all ages and fitness levels and features energizing music stations along the way.
Mini Country Fair: Enjoy food trucks, games, and the chance to donate children's books to local teachers for their classroom libraries.
Live Entertainment: Local performing arts groups will take the stage to entertain the audience with Dolly Parton covers and other country favorites.
Costume Awards: Don your best Dolly-inspired outfit for a chance to win fun prizes!
"We believe in the power of literacy to change lives," says Denise Durel, President and CEO of United Way Southwest Louisiana. "Every child deserves access to books that ignite their imaginations. The Dolly Run isn’t just a fundraiser; it’s a movement to enrich our community together!”
Registration is now open! Prices are as follows:
- Early Bird Registration: $40
- Virtual Registration: $25
- Event Day Registration: $50
- Youth Registration: $30
- Dolly Stroll: $15
All registration options come with a complimentary event t-shirt up to April 1.
Ready to make a difference while having a blast? Whether you're a dedicated runner or a casual walker, the Dolly Run welcomes everyone to join the fun! We also invite local high school performing arts groups to showcase their talent and entertain the crowd, making this event a true community celebration. Additionally, we are seeking sponsors to partner with us to amplify this event’s impact – because together, we can turn the page for the children in our community. Food trucks and vendors wishing to participate that day can register online at unitedwayswla.org/dollyrun.
For more information about registration and sponsorship opportunities and to learn more about Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library's life-changing work, please visit unitedwayswla.org/dollyrun. Let’s spread the love for reading and run together for a brighter future!
Together, we can inspire dreams, spark imaginations, and transform lives one page at a time!
FOOD & BEVERAGE VENDORS:
JJ's Jammin Foods
Maple Street Milkshake Bar
Mia's Lemonade & Cotton Candy
Soda Bar La
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About United Way Southwest Louisiana
From strengthening local resilience to advancing healthy communities, youth opportunity and financial security, United Way Southwest Louisiana is mobilizing communities to take action so all can thrive.
UnitedWaySWLA.org