Summit Tot Trot For Charity Registration Open

SUMMIT, NJ - In what’s now a Summit tradition, some 500 children ages two to 10 will gather on Saturday, June 2 at Memorial Field, raring to go and ready for the Summit Junior Fortnightly Club’s Tot Trot.

With the motto “Kids Running for Kids,” the event has become as a day for families to assemble and children to give back to other children, as event proceeds benefit a different children’s charity each year, officials said.

Now in its 41st year, proceeds from the event will benefit CASA of Union County. The organization recruits, trains, supervises and supports community volunteers to advocate for abused, neglected and abandoned children placed in foster homes or residential facilities. There are approximately 500 Union County youth from birth to age 21 in foster care, and the nonprofit advocates for just over half.

Volunteers have court-ordered access to a child and all parties in their life, then report findings to the judge in order to ensure best interests remain a priority, needs are met, and the youth’s trauma is not exacerbated while in care.

“Advocacy absolutely starts at a young age — children supporting children — and the Summit Junior Fortnightly Club’s annual event is a wonderful way to ensure that happens, as little ones learn early on that caring for others is simply the way to be," CASA of Union County Executive Director Marla Higginbotham said. "CASA of Union County is so grateful to be this year’s beneficiary, and will continue its mission to provide our community’s most fragile youth with a voice, and someone in their corner.”

Festivities kick off at 11 a.m. with a petting zoo, inflatables, an obstacle course and games, face painting, crafts and refreshments, and races begin at 1 p.m. Memorial Field is located at 5 Myrtle Avenue in Summit.

Registrations before May 30 are $17; $3 more for same day. Pre-registrants are guaranteed a medal, shirt and goody bag. To register, log on to the website.

To learn more about CASA of Union County — from becoming an advocate to participating in events — log on to www.casaofunioncounty.org or contact Courtney at (908) 293-8136 or cgreen@casaofunioncounty.org.

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