Thirteen color stations were set up at the Muskigum County Fairgrounds for this year’s Color Run (walk or waddle), representing organizations and community partners who showed up to support Drug Free Muskingum and Muskingum County Suicide Prevention Coalition’s yearly event held in conjunction with Mental Health Awareness Month.
The event is a fun and colorful way to break the ice on a topic that can be tough but is very important to talk about: mental health.
Although the wind made it difficult for all of the decorations to stay in place, there were still many eye-catching stations fully decorated to match this year’s “Sweet Adventure” theme. Some even handed out candy! There definitely was not a lack of creativity. Project Ready made a handheld cannon to spread a blast of color, and one family who has participated every year in memory of a loved one who died by suicide (the first two years as walkers and this year as a station) created their own color powder.
“I always say that my goal is to bring the community together when it comes to awareness, prevention, and education, and I think this is another event that does that, and the support of the community, it’s great,” said Monica Batteiger, Co-founder of Drug Free Muskingum and Family Advocate for the Zanesville- Muskingum County Health Department.
The Muskingum County Fairgrounds was once again the perfect location to hold the event due to having ample parking, plenty of space for the different color stations, and a wide paved path to run, walk, or waddle along.
“We like the venue again this year,” said Batteiger. “We think it’s central, and it’s nicely spread out. So we’re always thankful to them for allowing us to be here and use the grounds.”
Unlike most run/walk events, the Color Run (Walk or Waddle) is a go at your own pace event where nothing is timed. Pets, kids, and people of all ages and abilities are welcome. It is all about spreading awareness and making sure everyone is having a good time while doing it.
“200 people pre-registered, so that was great. Great weather, even though the wind has been a little bit treacherous, but still a great show,” stated Batteiger. “You know, we’re always preparing for next year, even when the day starts, we’re thinking about next year.”
The 4th Annual Color Run (walk or waddle) will be held next May. It is never too early to start planning to participate either as a color station or as a participant. To stay in the loop as to what the theme will be, as well as other details, be sure to follow Drug Free Muskingum and Muskingum County Suicide Prevention Coalition on Facebook.
