With a brand new location set against a warm fall morning, the 2017 MH4H Color Blast 5K was a day to remember. Executive Leader Tim Brand led the pre-race countdown, where 350 participants threw chalk paint in the air, creating a vibrant cloud of color and marking the start of the fun run.
The un-timed race started at 9:00am on Saturday, September 23rd at the Trinity Reformed Church parking lot in Pella. Smiles lit up everyone’s faces as they moved through the course, getting sprayed with colored powders as they passed through 5 different color stations.
Thanks to the support of 90 volunteers, and generous local sponsors, including title sponsor Marion County Bank, the MH4H Color Blast was able to raise $13,500 for development and mission work in Haiti.
Before and after the race, runners were treated to a mini festival, with free food and drinks, a jumping castle, photo booth, and a hand-print station. Local station KCWN 99.9 broadcast the event live, providing great music to keep participants energized. Food and drinks were provided by Fareway, Hy-Vee, and Hydrive Energy Water, giving runners a well-deserved post-race treat.
“What another amazing Color Blast! This run is always a joy-filled day for all involved. Thank you to everyone who helped make a difference. We are just constantly blown away by the generosity of people rallying together for a great cause,” said Brand.
“At Many Hands we really believe in transforming together; walking together and being strengthened by one another. Today we’ve seen that figuratively and literally. We are better for working together, and this money is going to do so many good things in Haiti.”
All proceeds from the MH4H Color Blast 5K will be used to fund ministry purposes for MH4H which include children’s education, spiritual development, food and farming programs, home rebuilding, medical services, and economic development opportunities.
The following businesses were generous enough to partner with us for the Color Blast:
For more information about MH4H volunteering opportunities in Pella and short term mission trips to Haiti, please email Marcena Schwab at [email protected].
See you next year!