Runners prepare to take off during the Clark Public Utilities Race for Warmth on Jan. 29.
The third annual Race for Warmth held Jan. 29 managed to raise more than $50,000 for a donor-funded heating assistance program with the number of racers approaching quadruple digits, according to Clark Public Utilities.
Several businesses provided “generous” support in order to maximize proceeds, a press release stated, with Columbia Credit Union, New Tradition Homes and Area Heating and Cooling listed as critical supporters. Also pitching in was Burgerville, with locations across Clark County collecting donations and donating money from hot drink sales to total just more than $17,000 in collections.
“Our event partners, media sponsors and employee volunteers are all part of the success of this event,” said Maxie Lofton, communications coordinator at Clark Public Utilities. “Overhead costs other events have to pay for out of the proceeds have been generously covered by our partners, and being a utility with tents and cones on hand, not to mention employees who are certified flaggers to keep participants safe along the route, means the money raised goes straight to help people in need through Operation Warm Heart.”
The annual event in benefit for Operation Warm Heart featured two races, a 10k featuring 245 runners out and back along the Vancouver waterfront, and a 5k for 716 walkers and runners through downtown.
A free kids run kicked off the events with more than 50 youth following the Clark College mascot, Oswald the Penguin. Healthy snacks and hot soup were provided before and after by Chuck’s Produce, while adults got free beer and commemorative pint glasses from Trusty’s Brewing and Columbia Credit Union.
“Since its creation in 1985, Operation Warm Heart has provided nearly $2.4 million to about 11,000 customers in financial crisis,” the release stated. “The donor-funded program helps families in need who may not qualify for other government programs. For more than 30 years, Clark Public Utilities customers and employees have generously funded Operation Warm Heart.”
Donations can be made year-round at any Clark Public Utilities location or by calling 360-992-3000
