On Saturday, September 21st, 2024 Educare Central Maine held its first annual 5K for Kids! fundraising event and raised $25,000. Nearly 70 participants of all ages signed up to walk or run and were welcomed back to the Educare campus by Waterville Fire Department’s ladder truck and showered with bubbles. Attendees were able to explore Educare’s nature-based playground, make their own bubble wands and – despite the cool, early fall temperature – enjoy a yummy snow cone and popcorn.
Many local businesses and individuals generously sponsored the event: the Bill and Joan Alfond Family Foundation, Central Maine Motors, Doug and Rita Sukeforth, Coldwell Banker Plourde Real Estate, PFG NorthCenter, Connected CU, Casella Waste Systems, American Glass, Central Maine Crate, the City of Waterville and three anonymous donors. Proceeds from the 5K stay local, supporting Educare’s high quality early care and education to young children to improve school readiness and to support families.
“Seeing our community come together to support our school was so heartwarming. We had runners, walkers of all ages participate, from 8 weeks old to entire families crossing the finish line together. The real winners here though, are the children and families of Educare Central Maine. We can’t thank our supporters enough!” – Erica Palmer, Education Manager