May 1, 2020 10:20 a.m.
Adapt’s Prevention and Education Program will host the Blast for Prevention as a virtual event this year.
A release from Adapt said the color blasting 5K run and walk will take place the week of June 21st through June 28th. Organizers ask participants to run or walk the 5K from any location while adhering to social distancing and group restrictions. The virtual format also allows people to complete the 5K all at once or break it up throughout the week at their convenience.
The release said rather than cancelling the event altogether, Adapt felt it was important to promote physical activity, family bonding and a sense of community. Cati Strempel, Prevention Program Director for Adapt said that during challenging times issues alike substance abuse and suicide are likely to increase. She said the organization wants to “inspire health, hope and connection and to help those who are struggling to know that they’re not alone”.
This year’s registration fee has been reduced to $25 to encourage greater participation. A packet of color powder, which is non-toxic corn starch, will be mailed to participants along with a race day bib and finishers medal. The color blast colors allow participants to show support for the community health issues that matter most to them:
*pink for substance abuse prevention
*purple for suicide prevention
*yellow for recovery
*blue for mental health promotion
*green for problem gambling prevention
The Blast helps raise funds to support Prevention programs in Douglas County, such as mentoring and positive youth development.
More information and entry forms are available at www.adaptoregon.org/prevention-education.