Have You Registered for the Paul Jackson 5K?

When Westfield resident Paul Jackson passed away at the age of 48, his dying wish was to continue the life-changing work he oversaw through The Paul Jackson Fund. 

Providing assistance to individuals and families who are facing a financial crisis due to a long-term illness or disability, The Paul Jackson Fund was established to help the then 28-year-old Jackson receive the help he needed following a surgery that left him paralyzed.

On Sunday, Oct. 14th, The Paul Jackson Fund will host its third annual 5K Run and 2 Mile Walk-A-Thon to raise funds for those in need. The fast, rolling park course in Oak Ridge Park in Clark will provide the backdrop for the event that supports the charity of last resort. Registration begins at 8 a.m., with the 5K kicking off at 9:30 a.m. and the 2-Mile Walk-A-Thon, which is wheelchair-friendly, beginning at 9:45 a.m. 

Parents are welcome to bring children for a race of their own. Sprints ranging from 25 to 200 yards are offered to runners between the ages of 2 and 11. All children will receive finisher ribbons and snacks.

This year, the Paul Jackson Fund is pleased to announce that entrants can set up their own fundraising page at www.firstgiving.com/pauljacksonfund. The top five individual fundraisers will receive a Flip Video Camera. Those who raise $100 or more can register for free. 

Those who pre-register will receive a Paul Jackson 5K t-shirt and entrants who sign up on the day of the race can grab one while supplies last. 

Awards will be given to the top male and female finishers for first, second and third place for the 5K as well as for various age groups within the 5K. Refreshments will be provided and a DJ will be on hand to liven up the morning. Random prizes will also be distributed. 

For more information, visit www.pauljacksonfund.org, www.oymp.net, call 908-902-8587, or email dohertypjf@gmail.com.