Lacing up to help area special needs organization

This weekend, runners will lace up and take strides toward helping people with disabilities. Proceeds from two races this weekend at the Flashback Run event, will go toward a summer program for adults and children with special needs.

Jim Bader’s 17 year old son John has autism. The summer can be a trying time for both parents and kids challenged by disabilities.

“I worked out of the home and John was home with me and there was nothing for me to have him do while I was working. He was kind of hanging around the house,” Flashback Program Volunteer, Jim Bader said.

That’s where the Flashback Arts and Athletic Program came in. Last year marked its first year. It addresses the need for summer activities for developmentally challenged teens and young adults.

“These are kids that have severe needs,” Bader said. “For parents who are looking for something for them to do, it involves usually one or two aides to help them physically, sometimes in a wheelchair.”

To keep the program going, this Saturday, May 29th, the organization will hold it’s annual fundraiser. Money raised from the Flashback 5K and 10K runs will help make sure there are safe, and fun activities that otherwise might not be available.

“This program was set up so that it was practically a zero cost because the parents are already investing a lot of money in just simple needs,” Jim Bader said.

F.A.A.P offers a variety of physical and mental activities, for middle and high school aged kids. This year, it’s opened up to adults up to age 30. Last year’s run raised four thousand dollars. Organizers hope to have another successful year.

Saturday’s run is a flashback to the seventies. Runners can dress up. It’s at 7:30 am at Mayfaire. To register, you can go to TrySports in Mayfaire Friday, May 28th from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm or you can show up at 6:45 am Saturday morning.