HADLEY — Five years ago, Stacey Mushenski had a swift idea for a way to help local public schools: hold an annual 5K race. It paid off at a quick pace.
The money brought in would supplement Hadley Public Schools’ budget, buying goods not included in the yearly financial roadmap. Since Mushenski deposited the first $25 in a checking account for the Helping Hearts for Hadley Schools organization in 2012, the annual race has become a community staple and brought in $125,000 for the district.
“I just felt like there was a need for something positive in Hadley and something inclusive for everyone,” Mushenski said.
This year’s race is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday at Hadley Elementary School. Potential participants also can opt for a 2-mile run.
Advance online registration costs $25 for adults. It is $15 for those 17-years-old and younger, and for all Hopkins Academy students. The fee increases by five dollars for same-day registration.
A block party will be held to mark the occasion at the elementary school at 11 a.m. Hadley alumnus Matt Peterson will be on-hand to DJ. Whole Foods Market, Esselon Cafe, the North Hadley Sugar Shack and Market, and Flayvors of Cook Farm will supply food.
Superintendent Anne McKenzie said teachers can make special requests of those behind the fundraiser. The money raised previously has gone toward acquiring everything from library books to laptops and archery gear, Mushenski said.
One of the goals of the event is to encourage active lifestyles. As part of that effort, local Zumba instructor Lauren Gladu will offer a demonstration. And the Shaolin Kung Fu Center of Hadley will be on-hand to kick in. There also will be free chair massages. Members of the UMass basketball program will make an appearance.
“There is a little bit of something for everyone of all ages,” Mushenski said.
McKenzie said the race’s success is an example of what a dedicated group of volunteers can do to improve the community.
“One person, a small group of people, can make a huge difference,” she said.
Jack Suntrup can be reached at jsuntrup@gazettenet.com.