North Chicago, IL, September 1, 2012 – On a sunny August 25^th morning,  residents gathered to watch 61 runners take off from Union Square Park in Hainesville  for a 1.5 mile Fun Run through the neighborhood.  The event was hosted by YouthBuild Lake County and Round Lake Park American Legion Post 1170 in conjunction with Hainesville Fest, a popular annual summer celebration held by the Village of Hainesville. 

“We thought a Fun Run was a great way to involve families in a fun and healthy activity that would also build more awareness of YBLC and its programs,” said YBLC Executive Director, Laurel Tustison.   YBLC is a non-profit organization that provides the necessary education and job training to help at-risk young adults build a better future for themselves and their families.

Hainesville Mayor Linda Soto was instrumental in making the Fun Run happen by graciously lending her support and resources. “Our families really enjoyed the event,” she said. “We’d like to keep the Fun Run as a regular event at our festival.”  Major donors for the event were the Village of Hainesville, Healthcare Foundation of Northern Lake County (HFNLC), Fifth Third Bank, Krügel Cobbles, Jelly Belly Candy Company, and Uline.  The big winners of the race were Raymond Salinas (1^st Place) and John Ray (2^nd Place).

“It takes a lot of support for events like this,” adds Tustison.  “We’re so grateful to the Village and all the other volunteers and supporters that made our inaugural Family Fun Run and Walk a great success. “

About YouthBuild Lake County (YBLC)

YBLC is a non-profit organization that provides the education and training necessary to help at-risk young adults (age 17-24) become gainfully employed and build a more hopeful future.  YouthBuild Lake County is affiliated with YouthBuild USA, voted among the nation’s most effective non-profit organizations because of its successful partnering with local community businesses to reach its goals. For more information, visit www.youthbuildlakecounty.org or call 847.473.3483.