The Diaper Bank of the Ozarks is distributing 1 million diapers to families in need across southwest Missouri this year and, fortunately for those who want to help, know this: you don’t have to change them.
Instead, there’s a more fun way – particularly for families and runners — to boost the charity’s efforts. Sign up today for the Diaper Dash & bRUNch Bash, a 1-mile walk/fun run, 5K and 10K beginning at 7 a.m. Saturday at the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. It also is part of the PGA Korn Ferry Tour’s Price Cutter Charity Championship presented by Dr Pepper.
Gailey’s Breakfast Café will supply breakfast, while adults can enjoy beverages from Mother’s Brewing Company. To register, visit DBODIAPERDASH.ORG or call 417-887-3400.
The Diaper Bank of the Ozarks, which joined the PCCC in 2018, has made quite an impact since Jill Bright founded it seven years ago. Her hope was to assist low-income families.
The DBO now distributes diapers, women’s products and adult briefs by working with more than 100 agencies in almost 60 counties of the Ozarks, including in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Additionally, the DBO offers a cloth diaper loan program, reaching 150 families and helping each save $2,000 on diaper expenses.
“I’m very proud and happy to be the new Executive Director of the Diaper Bank of the Ozarks because of its significant programs to families with Diaper Need,” Lori McLerran said. “Working with the PCCC and having runners participate in the Diaper Dash provide us that much more momentum for the services we provide.”
In other words, she is expanding on Bright’s vision. Bright often said, “We are the voice of that baby that cries.” McLerran and her team strives to turn around the numbers – from one in three families into zero in three families — through community collaboration, nondiscrimination, respect and integrity.
All this for an organization that employs the two full-time employees and one part time.
In the run:
- The course: It will run through Highland Springs, and brunch follows. In fact, it includes mimosas for adults. Faux-mosa stations will be on the course.
- Pre-registrations entry fees are: $20 (1-mile walk), $30 (5K) and $35 (10K). Add $5 for race-day registration.
- Medals: All receive a T-shirt and medal, with trophies to the top three men and women in both the 5K and 10K.
“This year’s event is going to be another first-class run right here in in our own backyard,” said Kari Norris, Marketing and Branding Director for the PCCC. “We are delighted to have Gailey’s providing brunch again, and it’s all for a great cause.”