Fort Yargo 5k to benefit noble cause Oct. 14

As of Saturday, September 15, 2012
© Copyright 2013 Gwinnett Daily Post

WINDER -- A 5K race planned for Oct. 14 at Fort Yargo State Park is expected to bring out the superhero in participants -- in some cases, literally.

The race and 1K fun run at the Barrow County park, the first of its kind, will raise funds for the Piedmont Court Appointed Special Advocate program. With the event being held a couple of weeks before Halloween, participants are encouraged to come dressed as their superhero of choice, officials said.

The Piedmont CASA, formed in 2000 by a juvenile court judge and community members, partners children of Barrow, Jackson and Banks counties with CASA volunteers, who advocate for the youngsters in juvenile court proceedings.

"These children need someone in their lives speaking to their best interest," the group's website reads. "They are neglected and/or abused by their parents/caregivers, moved from place to place without any stability in their lives, often behind in school. Your presence in their lives can be the one anchor they have."

The Fort Yargo events will span from 2 to 6 p.m., organizers said.

Officials noted that the course will be walk-friendly. Packet pick-up and race-day registration will begin at 1 p.m.

The 1,800-acre Fort Yargo State Park, located near downtown Winder at 210 S. Broad St., offers a 260-acre lake, cottages and other amenities, such as a disc golf course.

For registration and additional information, visit www.piedmontcasa.org or call 770-867-3489. Parking costs $5.

Gwinnett Daily Post