Angels Place, a non-profit organization, will hold its 7th annual race through Clarkston on Saturday, May 17.
The race will kick off at St. Daniels Church in Clarkston at 9:15 a.m. and proceed along a set course.
Race coordinators work very closely with Oakland County Sheriff, Independence Township Fire Department and Clarkston DPW to ensure a fun and safe event.
Every year about 300-320 people participate in the event, said volunteer Anne Clifton.
Participants can enter a 10K run, 5K run or walk, and a one mile family fun run or walk.
Race Organizer Paul Maxwell said there are many sponsorship opportunities still available.
A non-profit organization, Angel’s Place operates 20 homes primarily in Oakland County for people with developmental disabilities.
Money raised will help support homes and services offered at Angel’s Place and will also be used raise awareness in the community. Currently have 300 people on a waiting list to get into the home.
‘Angels Place promises ‘Care for Life? so we rely on volunteers and annual fundraisers to keep our doors open,? said executive director Cheryl Loveday.
At a Clarkston City Council meeting seeking approval for the race, March 10, Maxwell and Clifton thanked the community for incredible support over the years.
‘We have a very good track record having an effective event,? said Maxwell. ‘Businesses are very supportive.?
Clifton said the Clarkston Wolfpack running club has also contributed enormously to the success if the race.
Maxwell agreed.
‘Without Anne and the Wolfpack, we would still be stumbling around,? he said.
Maxwell said Bruce and Anne Clifton were instrumental in making the race a success.
The Bruce Clifton Race is a 5K race named in honor of the late Bruce Clifton, who designed the route and helped executive Director Paul Maxwell get the race started.
Maxwell’s mother, Margaret, started an Angel’s Place home in Birmingham along with four other women in 1992.
‘My sister has Down Syndrome and that was one of the reason they started the home,? he said. ‘Another woman who started the home also had a child with developmental disabilities. I do the race for my mother and my sister,? Maxwell said.
For more information on the race or sponsorship opportunities, email Paul Maxwell at maxwellpm333@aol.com
For more information about Angel’s Place homes contact Cheryl Loveday at 248-350-2203.