The Junior League of Northern Virginia (JLNV) is hosting its third annual 5K race and 1K fun run/walk, Strides For Success on Sunday, April 13 at Fairfax Corner. The race is held on a certified 5K course, VA05035-RT, and is a pleasant tour of the area around the Fairfax Corner shopping center. The 5K begins at 9:00 a.m. with the 1K kicking off approximately 15 minutes later.

This annual race is a key fundraiser for the League, with all proceeds benefiting the organization's mission and the many JLNV programs that prepare Northern Virginia children for success. This year the League is celebrating 50 years of service in the Northern Virginia area, and is proud to be a partner in the development of the new Children's Museum of Northern Virginia that is focusing on instilling a life-long love of learning through interactive science and technology exhibits.

In 2007, the event's second year, Strides For Success raised nearly $5,000 for League programs. Junior League of Northern Virginia President Emily Oehler said, "Each person who takes a step with us is helping a local child take a step forward in reaching their full potential. Strides For Success allows the community to come together to show support for the local children who don't have a voice - those in homeless shelters, those without healthcare, those who don't have enough food to eat; those without proper school supplies, and those without a sense of self-worth." Oehler added, "Participating in this race ensures local children receive what they need to succeed such as free art programs, free backpacks, free school physicals, free immunizations, and much more."

Strides For Success is a family-friendly event featuring prizes, t-shirts and goodie bags. All children who register for the race will also receive a medal. Fresh fruit, bagels, bottled water, and other refreshments will be provided. Runners and families can register online or print registration information for mailing at: http://www.jlnv.org

Registration fees for the event are as follows:

5K: $25
5K Children 10 and under: $5
1K Fun Run/Walk: $20

* Registration fees will increase after April 6 to $30 for the 5K and $25 for the 1K Fun Run/Walk. We will accept registrations on the day of the race.

The Junior League of Northern Virginia currently focuses on preparing children in Northern Virginia for success. Through its programs, the League helps children achieve their full potential by working to remove barriers to academic success, promoting a love of learning, and fostering self-esteem. For more details on Strides For Success, or to register for the event, call 703-587-6272 or visit http://www.jlnv.org.

For more information and links, look on the Featured Race page at Strides for Success.