Be a Hero 5K Unites Community to Support Valley Children

Be a Hero 5K Unites Community to Support Valley Children

On Saturday, hundreds of community members gathered at Rancho Mirage Community Park to take part in the Be a Hero 5K, an annual event dedicated to improving the lives of children across the Coachella Valley. The race raised funds for the Hazelden Betty Ford Children's Program and the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center, both of which provide critical resources for children in need.

Event organizer Molly Thorpe, race director for Palm Springs Marathon Runners, emphasized the event's impact: "Children are our heart, and anything you can do to help a child makes you a hero." The race featured about 250 participants and 25 community organizations, highlighting available services for children and families.

Attendees expressed their enthusiasm for supporting the cause, with one participant noting, "It’s a chance to come together as a community, and it’s for a great cause."

For those who couldn’t attend, organizers encourage ongoing support by reaching out to the Betty Ford Center and Barbara Sinatra Center to learn how to make a difference. As an annual event, organizers hope it continues to grow bigger and better each year.