DEF 5K Run Cancelled

Dunellen Education Foundation’s 18th annual 5K race will not be happening this September. According to the organization’s president Trina Rios, “After 17 years of a successful race, we are taking a year off to focus on fundraising.” The DEF had solicited for volunteers in July but did not receive the response needed for the event to go forward.

The 5K race has been the major fundraising event for the nonprofit organization that has as its mission to support “educational, nonprofit, and community related programs that would provide the knowledge and skills to face the challenges of an increasingly complex and technology driven world.” In the past, it has provided grants to bring smart boards to various classrooms, improve the sound system in the high school auditorium, and help with several Dunellen Public Library programs. According to Rios, since the DEF started, they have donated at least $200,000.

Although mostly Dunellen residents participate in the 1 mile family fun run component, runners from all over the tri-state area come to compete in the officially timed race. The race course meanders through flat, tree-lined streets on Dunellen’s north side.

The race is scheduled to return next year on September 24, 2016. A special race subcommittee will be formed to handle all facets of the event. In addition, there will be other fundraising events throughout 2015 and 2016. Those interested in helping out for next year’s race or this year’s fundraising are encouraged to attend the DEF’s next meeting at the Dunellen Hotel on September 10 at 7:30pm, contact Dunelleneducationfoundation@yahoo.com or follow its Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/DunellenEducationFoundation.