On Sunday, January 30, 2022, hundreds of runners, walkers, and athletes who are differently abled came together from all walks of life at the David Posnack Jewish Community Center (DPJCC) despite historic cold weather conditions to participate in the Be a Hero-Run4Kids 5K Run/Walk and Wheelchair Race. The event benefitted the DPJCC’s Giborim United program for children and adults with developmental disabilities and Lauren’s Kids, offering child abuse prevention and awareness education while helping survivors heal with guidance and support.
Opening ceremonies were kicked-off by WPLG – Local 10 Chief Certified Meteorologist Betty Davis, who served as master of ceremonies. Scott Ehrlich, CEO, and Heather Gilbert, Board Chair of the DPJCC, were joined by Senator Lauren Book, founder, and CEO, and Ronald Book, Chairman of Lauren’s Kids at the 5K. Together they welcomed all event participants and local elected officials such as Broward County Mayor Michael Udine, Cooper City Mayor Greg Ross, Former Mayor Debby Eisinger, Commissioners Jeff Green, Howard Meltzer, and other dignitaries for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Event-goers enjoyed a day packed with exciting family activities such as a 5K and 1-mile run/walk with an explosion of color as participants crossed the finish line Color Run finale. The event also featured a kid’s fun-zone complete with giant Zip-It Obstacle Course and Bounce House, live DJ, mascots, face-painting, splash-pad, pool, inflatables, resources from local law enforcement agencies, non-profit organizations, and family fun for everyone. Those who worked up an appetite during the run enjoyed refreshments courtesy of PepsiCo, Stirling Kosher Catering,Menchies Frozen Yogurt-Davie, and Pro-X International, which donated an assortment of fresh fruits and snacks.
The event concluded with an Awards Ceremony led by Betty Davis. Mayor Michael Udine presented the DPJCC, and Lauren’s Kids with a Proclamation requested by District-5 Commissioner Steve Geller proclaiming Sunday, January 30, 2022, as “Be A Hero-Run4Kids 5K Run/Walk Day” in Broward County. Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals were awarded to the top three male and female runners in each division, as well as an award for the best superhero costume and best pet costume. Miami Dolphins alumni players Troy Drayton, Patrick Surtain, Oronde Gadsden, and OJ McDuffie participated and presented the winners with their medals.
This community effort was made possible by the generous support of all event participants, donors, and corporate sponsors Ronald L. Book, PA, Gold Coast Beverage, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, PepsiCo, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Kelley Kronenberg Attorneys at Law, Kleen1, Eisinger Law, Priority Lending, Kalis, Kleiman & Wolfe,Automated Health Care Solutions, Salons by JC, Kofsky Weinger PA, Kramer, Green, Zuckerman, Greene & Buchsbaum, FTIC: Florida Title Insurance Company, Miami Dolphins Special Teams as well as media partnersDadeMedia/Outfront Media, Mobile Mike, Comcast, Clear Channel Outdoor and many others.
About David Posnack JCC
The David Posnack Jewish Community Center is located in the heart of southwest Broward County. Its mission: Enriching lives by connecting people through cultural, educational, social, recreational, and wellness programs in an environment of fun, friendship, and unity. The J is open to all and proudly guided by Jewish values. From infant to senior year-round, the “J” is a place that offers endless possibilities for you and your family to grow. It serves all residents of the community, regardless of faith, age, or disability.
The JCC is a 501(c)(3) and is rated by GuideStar and Charity Navigator. For more information, visit dpjcc.org.
About Lauren’s Kids
Lauren Book, M.S. ED, founder, and CEO of Lauren’s Kids, is an internationally recognized child protection advocate, best-selling author, and Florida State Senator who works every day to protect childhood. She is also a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, suffered at the hands of a trusted caretaker from the time she was 10 until the age of 16. Armed with the knowledge that 95 percent of sexual abuse is preventable through education and awareness, Lauren has worked to turn her horrific personal experience into a vehicle to prevent childhood sexual abuse and help other survivors heal.
An official 501(c)(3) since 2007, Lauren’s Kids educates adults and children about sexual abuse prevention through in-school curricula, ADDY and EMMY Award-winning public awareness campaigns, and speaking engagements around the country and the world. The organization provides more than 10 million direct mail education and awareness materials statewide. The foundation has helped advocate for the passage of nearly two dozen laws to support survivors and protect children from predators. For more information, please visit www.laurenskids.org.