Running for a Good Cause

The Lighthouse Run raised approximately $35,000 to help bring awareness to and fight against addiction

ATASCADERO — Lighthouse Atascadero held its eighth annual Lighthouse Run on the morning of Saturday, June 4. After a two-year break, the 5K was held at the Santa Margarita Ranch Educational Center from 8 to 11 a.m.

Lighthouse Run Lori Sortino Essence Captured Photography 4 — Running for a Good Cause

The Lighthouse Run benefits Lighthouse’s programs that bring awareness, intervention, prevention, and education to the community about drug and alcohol abuse.

“It was great. We had a record number of attendees, and we raised the most money that we’ve ever raised in previous years,” said Co-Race Director Lori Bagby.

The run had 303 participants who walked or ran the 5K. And over 25 kids signed up for the Kid’s Half-Mile and the Kid’s Dash, where participants under 6 get a medal. Bagby also stated that more teens participated this year than any year prior.

The Lighthouse Run, which was started in 2013 by North County Young Professionals (a part of the Chamber of Commerce) to fundraise for Lighthouse, was taken over by Bagby and the Lighthouse Run’s co-chair Kelsey Sullivan in its third year.

“It keeps growing every year, and we just keep making more money every year,” stated Bagby.

This year the 5K raised approximately $35,000 for Lighthouse and everything it provides to the community.

“It’s super fun, but you also definitely know why you’re there and what it is that you’re supporting. We make sure that that’s clear,” Bagby said. “There’s a banner that you can sign if you’re walking or running in memory of somebody or somebody that’s battling addiction. A lot of people have been affected by it [addiction], and it’s just a really good supportive, fun event.”

The event is extremely family-oriented, with a bounce house, vendors, a pancake breakfast provided by Kiwanis, and a moment of silence before the run starts.

“It’s just really great, the community coming together,” Bagby said about the run and the people who donate their time and resources to the Lighthouse Run.

The Lighthouse Run will return next year on Saturday, June 3, 2023.