Want to raise money for Lee’s Summit schools? Lace up those running or walking shoes

Are you a competitive runner, casual jogger or walker interested in helping local schools and students? The Lee’s Summit Educational Foundation invites you to join the nearly 1,000 participants expected at the charitable organization’s 27th annual Race for the Future 5K, beginning at 8 a.m. Oct. 14 at Lee’s Summit West High School’s Activity Complex, 2600 S.W. Ward Road.

The event is a major fundraiser for the Educational Foundation, and also benefits the Carrie Foresee Memorial Scholarship. Carrie Foresee was a Lee’s Summit R-7 student who died in 1996 as a result of injuries suffered in an automobile accident.

Chrissy Symes, Lee’s Summit Educational Foundation director, said the event raises more than $20,000 before expenses, with proceeds earmarked for Lee’s Summit R-7 schools through grants and funding for programs and special projects. Race for the Future — which includes a 5K run/walk and Kids Dash — also brings the large school district’s students, staff, families and community members together.

“Race for the Future truly is a really fun event,” Symes said. “We love that it not only supports our amazing school district and the Lee’s Summit Educational Foundation, but it also promotes community involvement and health and fitness. It’s a win-win for all involved.”

A new feature at the 2023 Race for the Future is the Kids Zone, located on the Activity Complex field. Local businesses and organizations will host booths offering free games, giveaways and activities for children.

The Kids Dash is a popular feature at Race for the Future, with around 120 children typically participating. Children from preschool through sixth grade are grouped by age, running a portion of the high-school track following the completion of the 5K. All Kids Dash runners receive a ribbon and treat bag.

Anyone who wants to support the Educational Foundation but is unable to attend on Oct. 14 may register as a Dream Partner or Virtual Participant and receive their own Race for the Future T-shirts. Virtual Participants are also provided with a link to record their steps at locations of their own choosing.

Money raised through Race for the Future support the Foundation’s annual funding priorities, Symes said, which include $15,000 in new teacher grants, $60,000 in classroom grants, $45,000 in real-world learning opportunities for students through the Geometry in Construction Program, materials for fifth-grade build projects, and supplies for environmental science investigation studies at the school district’s new Paradise Park facility for kids from kindergarten through second grade.

“In addition, LSEF will be providing $88,000 toward technology enhancements, $10,000 in student-led grants and hosting a new resource fair and seminar for caregivers to create awareness and help navigate prevalent issues affecting student mental health and wellbeing,” she said.

This fall’s 5K not only includes a competition for the fastest times. On race morning, three schools will receive grants — totaling $1,000, $750 or $250 — based on Race for the Future participation by students and school employees.

The community event also includes opportunities for those interested in sponsorship or volunteering.

“We lean on our volunteers a lot,” Symes said about the approximately 40 Race for the Future volunteers. “It also offers an opportunity for people to be engaged and supportive of Lee’s Summit R-7 by being present and helping with an event that raises funds for our district. Our volunteers have a great time and typically come back from year to year.”

Race for the Future packet pick-up will be held Oct. 13 at Athletico Physical Therapy with runners and walkers also able to get their packets on race morning at Lee’s Summit West High School.

For more information about the Lee’s Summit Educational Foundation and Race for the Future, visit this webpage.