Run, walk or roll for a cause

By Jeff Harrison
Midwest City Beacon

More than a hundred people ran, walked or rolled Saturday morning to support Mid-Del Group Home.

The non-profit organization held their annual 5k/Fun Run at Joe B. Barnes Regional Park. The event raised more than $20,000 for the Mid-Del Group Home.
State Sen. Brenda Stanley helped send the runners off from the starting line.

The top finishers in the Fun Run were Tristan Kirk, JJ Self and Daniel Harris. In the 5k race, Koen Wagner took first place in 19.58, followed by Carter Reese (20:00) and Samuel Blough (20:17).
Joel Bain, director of Mid-Del Group Home, was thrilled with the turnout on Saturday. He said they had about four times as many people attend compared to last year. They also about doubled their fundraising efforts.

“The races went off without a hitch, the weather was perfect and our supporters came out in a big way,” Bain said.

Bain said their fundraising goal was $15,000 this year. The money will be used to install a loading dock for the workshop. Last year, they used funds to buy a new minivan.

“We’re trying to improve the building at this point, so with as much turnout and community involvement as we had, I think we’ll definitely be able to get there,” Bain said.

Bain credits the success of the event to the strong supporters and increased publicity. He also believes COVID-19 concerns last year may have kept some people away.

“Last year we were wearing masks before the race started, so for people to come out feel free and enjoy the beautiful morning was great,” he said.

Bain said they are considering hosting a glow run in the future.

Mid-Del Group Home provides a comprehensive network of vocational and residential services to individuals with developmental disabilities in Oklahoma. The organization was founded in Midwest City in 1983.