The Humane Society for Logan County held their first annual Somewhere Over the Rainbow St. Patrick’s Day 5K Fun Run/Walk in downtown Russellville on Sunday, March 16.
“The whole day was a huge success!” said Julie Martin, president of the organization. “We had participants from all across the county and even Bowling Green! It was an amazing turnout of people running and walking; young people, older folks, families with kids and strollers – we are thrilled with the response and so thankful for the community’s support!”
The community backing was key to the event’s success, reports Martin. “John Crider, owner of Pizza MD and The Shack, donated all the snacks and drinks for the participants, Katherine McCumber of All is Well Tattoo designed the t-shirt, The Flying Pig closed off their entire upstairs for two days so we could store all our balloons and balloon arch, DJ Catt Daddy came all the way up from Nashville to provide the music; so many businesses all across the county let us put up posters and shared the event on their social media – it was a true community effort!”
In a field of 50, it was 11-year-old Delany Switzer who led the pack, completing the 5 km course in just 23 minutes and 44 seconds. “Her mom came to ask us if we had a lead car, because Delaney was definitely NOT going to stay with the group!” said Grace Cormier, manager of the Humane Society’s shelter at 1970 Lewisburg Rd.
“We had so much fun” said Caitie Hutchinson of Russellville. “So glad it’s going to be an annual thing – I’m already looking forward to next year!” exclaimed Chris Rainwater, who also volunteered at the event, along with the entire staff of The Flying Pig Coffee Shop.
Last Sunday’s 5K was the first major fundraiser of the year for the Humane Society, who has an entire calendar of events to help raise money for the shelter. Because they receive no funding from the county or fiscal court, (only the City of Russellville contributes to the shelter financially) the Humane Society must raise 95 percent of their budget every month through donations, fundraising, members, grants and corporate sponsorships.
“It costs us approximately $10,000 a month to stay open, and the only municipal support we receive is $684 from Russellville” said Martin. “That’s why events like this are so important to us. If we can’t raise the funds, we can’t keep our doors open.”
For more information on upcoming events for The Humane Society in Logan County, including their “The Kittens Are Coming” supply drive in April, the Founder’s Day Gala & Auction in May, Pickleball Tournament in June and many other community events, check out their website at www.adoptlcpets.com, or follow them on Facebook and Tiktok.