There's still time to register for the second annual SMART 5.29K run and walk, a race which will benefit adopted and foster children so that their families can afford the price of college.
Proceeds from the race will go into a SMART 529 account, a tax-exempt, tax-free savings account that families can invest in to later use to pay for college. Frameworks and Mission West Virginia have partnered with the Office of the State Treasurer to host the event.
Last year, more than 50 people turned out for the inaugural race, meaning seven children received $1,200 scholarships in a newly created SMART 529 account, according to Stephanie Adkins, a member of Mission West Virginia's board.
"You need all the support you can get from your family as you obtain your college degree," said Carrie Showalter, Mission West Virginia spokeswoman, in a news release. "A lot of these kids have been through a lot in their youth. I think some don't even believe they can do it, which stops them from the beginning."
Only between 2 percent and 9 percent of former foster children go on to earn their bachelor's degree, according to a report from Foster Care for Success.
Registration will continue through to the day of the race for a $35 fee, but if racers register online through the State Treasurer's website by Wednesday, the fee is only $30. All but $3 of the fee will go directly to the college savings account.
Racers can check in beginning at 7 a.m. Saturday at the third base entrance of the Appalachian Power Park, 601 Morris St. in Charleston. The run will begin at 8 a.m. and the walk will begin 10 minutes later.
Competitors can pick up their race packets from 4-6 p.m. Friday at the center court of Capitol Market, 800 Smith St.