Happy Happy Joy Run

A Virtual Race on July 4, 2020. Run where & how you want, the distance you want, and for a good Cause!

All proceeds benefit TURN Community Services, a non-profit organization founded by parents in 1973 as an alternative to institutionalization for their adult children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In 47 years, TURN has grown to provide Residential Services, Day Programs, Art Centers, Family Support, Summer Camps, and employment opportunities to over 800 individuals in need throughout Utah.

On a personal note, Turn Community Services inspired my career path. Every day my clients revealed to me what makes a life meaningful: live simply, practice patience, and always give unconditional love. Though it's been near 15 years since I worked there I still find myself applying the life lessons I learned from my client's unconditional positive regard for me. I hope to give back something of value to them by using this platform as a fundraiser for their organization.

This race is the third in the "Run for Joy" virtual race series. Each race in the series has taken place on a special day of the year, the Happy Happy Joy Run is no exception. Include this run in your Independence Day celebrations, all the more reason to celebrate!

This race series is founded on the principle that running (and walking!) is an opportunity for self-care. At Running + Therapy my aim is to help others live a well-rounded, holistic lifestyle. Physical wellness -- running-- is one piece of that puzzle. On my own journey as a runner, I've discovered that running creates a chain reaction of wellness. One run leads to another run, which leads to time spent outdoors communing with nature, or connecting emotionally with myself or others, which leads to relief from stress and anxiety, which leads to feelings of accomplishment, which leads to more confidence, courage, and contentment in life, and on and on. I hope that this little experiment will help to inspire a similar self-care chain reaction for you too, while at the same time giving back to a good cause.

For this event you choose your distance. Whether that be 1-mile, a 5k, 10k, or 10-miler is up to you! Race results will be posted here by category. Submit and view results HERE (more detailed instructions should have been received via email). This is an opportunity for you to make your run something meaningful to you!

Don't forget to tag you race day pictures on social media! #happyhappyjoyrun #runforjoyvirutalrun #runforjoyvirtual5k

Race participants will be awarded a downloadable Finisher's Certificate and printable Finisher's Award Poster that doubles as a zen-coloring page. The poster is a unique print designed by artist Emily Doliner. Snap a picture of your award after you've colored it and share on social media #runforjoyvirtual5k #happyhappyjoyrun @kjersti_running_therapy

Participants can access a free lifestyle + run training plan at https://www.kjerstinelson.com/run-for-joy-lifestyle-runplan The plan provides training suggestions and provides lots of ideas for self-care and wellness.

Happy Happy Joy Running! And Happy Happy Joy Giving!