Strength in Numbers

There’s a saying that there is strength in numbers. And next weekend, a Stamford-based nonprofit is going to prove it. For the past several years, Kids Helping Kids (KHK) has supported a local group with its “Remembering One” relay race. Next weekend, on Friday, June 24th, family, friends and supporters will come together for the group’s third annual race for a very special cause.

This year’s race is dedicated to finding a cure for pediatric cancer. In 2008, eleven year old Mikey Czech was diagnosed with one of the most aggressive forms of brain tumors known as diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). This type of tumor typically attacks children under the age of 16. Tragically, Mikey’s tumor was inoperable and incurable and Mikey passed away in 2008. The Mikey Czech Foundation was started by his family to raise awareness and hopefully, find a cure for pediatric brain cancer.

Many of the members of KHK knew Mikey and his family. The KHK youth decided that all proceeds from this year’s Remembering One Relay next Friday at the New Canaan High School track will be donated to the Mikey Czech Foundation. The Den for Grieving Kids and St. Luke’s Lifeworks have been recipients in past years.

Throughout the year, KHK seeks to develop leadership among middle and high school age children through community service to instill a lifelong commitment to social responsibility. All of the work they do is focused on kids helping other kids. The events and programs are youth initiated and led and membership is free and open to all youth.

The race is a truly amazing example of a community banding together for a common goal. And not only are two non-profits joining forces, but local businesses are also getting involved too. New Balance of New Canaan is sponsoring the event. New Canaan Pizza is bringing the food. The Bank of New Canaan is providing a great DJ for dancing, fun and games for the night by James Daniel Entertainment. And there will even be a miniature golf course built especially by Augie and Perry Beringer, 8th graders, who wanted to provide a traveling golf course for some of the KHK events.

This is just the type of grassroots community collaboration and spirit we get so excited about at Darien-based VolunteerSquare.com. Maybe this event will inspire you in your own community to identify a need and lend a hand in your own way?

The race is open to all ages and abilities and all proceeds will go to the Mikey Czech Foundation. You can form a relay team ahead of time or meet up with other participants at the race. Pre-registration is just $15 or $20 on the day of the race.

If you’re interested in participating in this really special event, you can register at New Balance in New Canaan ahead of time or at the race. Participation is $15 until June 23rd and $20 on race day.

To print out a race form or for more info on Kids Helping Kids, visit: www.CtKidsHelpingKids.org