CHESHIRE, CT — Around 800 runners and walkers are expected to participate in the 18th annual Bartlett & Grippe Hot COCO 5K, Kids Fun Run and 1-Mile Walk on Saturday morning, Nov. 14, in Cheshire.
The event is the annual fundraiser for Abilities Without Boundaries (AWB). AWB serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Cheshire and a dozen surrounding towns.
The scenic rolling 5K course begins at The Norton School and travels the historic Farmington Canal Line.
"The more leisurely 1-Mile Walk is among lovely Cheshire neighborhoods," according to a news release. "The Kids Fun Run is entirely on the school grounds and starts at 10 a.m., followed by the 5K/Walk at 10:10 a.m.
"After the race, runners, walkers and spectators enjoy a post-race party featuring entertainment, food, beverages, music and an awards ceremony, plus all the hot cocoa they can drink!"
Awards are given to top age-group finishers. All runners in the Cheshire Coffee Kids Fun Run receive a finisher ribbon.
"Abilities Without Boundaries helps people achieve independence, self-sufficiency, community participation and personal satisfaction through employment and day support services," said Amanda Barnes, executive director. "Some of the individuals in AWB's care require constant one-on-one care. However, others are able to work in the community with just a bit of coaching and support.
"All these individuals have three things in common. One: they don't drive and so they need transportation. Two: they find themselves facing daily difficulties most of us cannot imagine. Three: they have a spirit and determination that deserves our help."
Read more from the news release below:
AWB supports nearly 100 adult individuals. It has more than 50 employees. The organization was founded in Cheshire 47 years ago. AWB is a strong community partner in Cheshire and surrounding towns.
"While the majority of our funding comes from the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS), fundraisers like the Hot COCO provide for extra programming," Barnes said. "This year we are raising funds to purchase a new, to us, van. Handicapped accessible transportation is one of our foundational services."
The Bartlett & Grippe Hot COCO is sponsored by: Bartlett & Grippe Attorneys at Law; Barter Network; Kids Fun Run Sponsor Cheshire Coffee; Halmar International; Lloyd R. Saberski, MD; Acctru; Barker Specialty Company; Carmody, Torrance, Sandak & Hennessy, LP; Connecticut Community Bank; Gaylord Specialty Healthcare; Ion Bank; Nesso Group; Strollo's Towing Service; The Crate Escape; Olympic Taekwondo Academy of Cheshire; Richard Chevrolet; Webster Bank; Advanced Dentistry; AJ Waste Systems; Blender Bar; Brooklyn Bakery; DDN Consulting Services; East Coast Mechanical; Law Offices of Ryan B, Corey; Thrive Together Fitness; Transform Technology Services; 99.1 WPLR; Cheshire Town Bulletin; Table Talk Pies; Polar; Brooklyn Bakery; Subway; Lesser Evil and W.B. Mason.
To register in advance, visit www.jbsports.com or call JB Sports at 203-481-5933. The event is held rain or shine. Race Day registration is available.
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