Downtown was a buzz Saturday at the 2nd annual Healthy Kids Celebration.  More than 150 runners and walkers participated in the 5K, 10K and fun run, and more than 500 were in attendance to enjoy the games, activities, refreshments and concert presented by the Learning Station.

Susan Nimmer, Healthy Kids child abuse and neglect prevention coordinator, said the event was a huge success.

“We had an increase in participation this year. There were more runners, sponsors, volunteers and individuals this year, all wearing the Anchor Together T-Shirt,” said Nimmer.

The event, themed to Anchor Together to Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect, is one of the many fundraiser events used to help prevent abuse and neglect in the life of a child.

“The funds generated through the Healthy Kids for Kids event and the Anchor Together T-Shirt sales are used to generate matching funds for grants.  The funds allow us to serve more families in our area and to extend our services,” said Nimmer.

April is National Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention month and Healthy Kids encourages the community to join together in wearing the Anchor Together T-Shirts to show support for building a strong community for children.

Jess Causey, 10, a fifth grader at Fort Dale Academy designed the logo for the T-Shirts.  Nimmer encourages children to wear their shirts every Friday in April as well as throughout the year.

“We are grateful for the community support we receive.  A special thank you to all of the sponsors, volunteers, race participants and to all that have already purchased a T-Shirt.  Each time you wear one of the Anchor Together shirts it not only makes a difference, but it stands for building a bright future for children, families and our community,” said Nimmer.

For more information about purchasing a T-Shirt call (334) 371-2104.