On Sunday, January 30, 2022, hundreds of runners, walkers, and athletes who are differently abled came together from all walks of life at the David Posnack Jewish Community Center (DPJCC) despite historic cold weather conditions to participate in the Be a Hero-Run4Kids 5K Run/Walk and Wheelchair Race. The event benefitted the DPJCC’s Giborim United program for children and adults with developmental disabilities and Lauren’s Kids, offering child abuse prevention and awareness education while helping survivors heal with guidance and support.
Opening ceremonies were kicked-off by WPLG – Local 10 Chief Certified Meteorologist Betty Davis, who served as master of ceremonies. Scott Ehrlich, CEO, and Heather Gilbert, Board Chair of the DPJCC, were joined by Senator Lauren Book, founder, and CEO, and Ronald Book, Chairman of Lauren’s Kids at the 5K. Together they welcomed all event participants and local elected officials such as Broward County Mayor Michael Udine, Cooper City Mayor Greg Ross, Former Mayor Debby Eisinger, Commissioners Jeff Green, Howard Meltzer, and other dignitaries for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Event-goers enjoyed a day packed with exciting family activities such as a 5K and 1-mile run/walk with an explosion of color as participants crossed the finish line Color Run finale. The event also featured a kid’s fun-zone complete with giant Zip-It Obstacle Course and Bounce House, live DJ, mascots, face-painting, splash-pad, pool, inflatables, resources from local law enforcement agencies, non-profit organizations, and family fun for everyone. Those who worked up an appetite during the run enjoyed refreshments courtesy of PepsiCo, Stirling Kosher Catering, Menchies Frozen Yogurt-Davie, and Pro-X International, which donated an assortment of fresh fruits and snacks.
The event concluded with an Awards Ceremony led by Betty Davis. Mayor Michael Udine presented the DPJCC, and Lauren’s Kids with a Proclamation requested by District-5 Commissioner Steve Geller proclaiming Sunday, January 30, 2022, as “Be A Hero-Run4Kids 5K Run/Walk Day” in Broward County. Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals were awarded to the top three male and female runners in each division, as well as an award for the best superhero costume and best pet costume. Miami Dolphins alumni players Troy Drayton, Patrick Surtain, Oronde Gadsden, and OJ McDuffie participated and presented the winners with their medals.
This community effort was made possible by the generous support of all event participants, donors, and corporate sponsors Ronald L. Book, PA, Gold Coast Beverage, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, PepsiCo, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Kelley Kronenberg Attorneys at Law, Kleen1, Eisinger Law, Priority Lending, Kalis, Kleiman & Wolfe, Automated Health Care Solutions, Salons by JC, Kofsky Weinger PA, Kramer, Green, Zuckerman, Greene & Buchsbaum, FTIC: Florida Title Insurance Company, Miami Dolphins Special Teams, as well as media partners Dade Media/Outfront Media, Mobile Mike, Comcast, Clear Channel Outdoor and many others.
