WASHINGTON COURT HOUSE, Ohio — Fayette County residents will have four chances this September to lace up their sneakers for a cause, as local organizations roll out a lineup of walks, runs and an obstacle course benefiting animal welfare, mental health awareness and community programs.
The Fayette County Health District highlighted the events in a social media post this month, titled “Move Your Body. Connect With Your Community. Support a Cause,” urging residents to combine exercise with community connection ahead of the fall season.
The first event, the Crops & Cows Challenge Course, is set for Sept. 12 at 9 a.m. The outdoor obstacle course, organized by the Fayette County Farm Bureau, is designed to encourage movement and teamwork among participants.
Later that same day, the Fayette Regional Humane Society will host its Walk Against Animal Cruelty, with registration beginning at 10 a.m. and the walk starting at 11 a.m. The humane society is the only organization in Fayette County that responds around the clock to reports of animal abuse, neglect and abandonment, and it employs three certified humane officers who investigate complaints and work with owners on responsible pet care, according to the organization. The nonprofit places nearly 2,000 dogs, cats and other animals into homes each year.
That evening, the Fayette County Suicide Prevention Coalition — A Community of Hope will hold its fourth annual “A Light in the Dark” Glow Walk, with gates opening at 6:45 p.m. at Tony’s Welding & Fabrication Stadium at Miami Trace High School. The free event is meant to raise awareness of suicide prevention and mental health resources and to support those affected by suicide loss. The coalition, formed in 2019, is made up of community agency representatives, clergy and residents affected by suicide, according to the health district.
The following weekend, on Sept. 19 at 9 a.m., the United Way of Fayette County will host its Scarecrow 5K and 10K Walk/Run as part of the Scarecrow Festival in downtown Washington Court House. Proceeds from the race benefit United Way of Fayette County programs, including the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library book-gifting program, according to the organization.
The health district said residents don’t have to choose just one event, encouraging the community to take part in as many as they can this fall.
The information contained in this story was obtained from the Fayette County Health District.
