Frostburg Church Holds Community Color Run Race

Story by Liz Bailey

The Frostburg (Md.) church wanted to host an exciting event for their community but didn’t know exactly what to do. In came Michelle Kho, a newly baptized member and schoolteacher who came up with the idea of a Community Color Run. Denise Lewis, another Frostburg member, joined her in organizing the event.

A Color Run is an untimed “fun run” that is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The purpose of the run can be to raise money for something and to introduce the community to your church. Local businesses helped by donating snacks, water and gift cards that could be used at their stores.

The run was held at the local Frostburg Community Park, with all proceeds going to Frostburg’s local fire department and the Cumberland Union Rescue Mission.

56 participants were given a number to pin on their shirts and choose whether to run a timed 2K, 4K or walk. There were also food trucks, a bounce house, a variety of games and a dunking booth to be enjoyed by the community.

The event culminated in a colorful celebration as spectators tossed colorful, safe cornstarch powder on the runners as they crossed the finish line. “We want people to know who we are and that we care about and support other organizations in our community,” states Elaine Buchanan, a Cumberland church member. “This was our first attempt for a Color Run, and we were surprised how well it turned out.”