The idea started with a post by Facebook user Alayna Clark shortly after the devastating Dec. 26 tornado demolished or damaged more than 1,100 Rowlett homes. “Can’t we do a 5K or something to raise money for affected families?” Steve Walker saw the post and got busy.
Walker got in touch with Coach Barrett Hopper, owner of the Rockwall Running Center, who said he’d be happy to help.
Numerous businesses and citizens, along with title sponsor Dr. Mark Boren of Rowlett Smiles dentistry, supported the effort and the 5K Rebuilt Rowlett was held Saturday, March 26. Nearly 2,000 runners, including local residents as well as people from three other countries and 11 other states participated in the event.
Race organizers presented a check at the April 5 Rowlett City Council meeting. The final total presented to Mayor Todd Gottel and the Rowlett City Council members was an amazing $40,655.29.
“The Rebuild Rowlett 5K was a roaring success,” Walker wrote.
He added that the event is one of the most successful of its kind to ever be held in Rowlett.
The funds raised will be added to the Rebuild Rowlett Long Term Recovery Fund and will be administered by the Rowlett Chamber Foundation, which is a nonprofit 501 (c) (3) organization. Citizens and families who receive these funds will go through the case management process.
The next fundraising events, “Scavenge Rowlett” and “Scavenge Garland,” will also benefit the tornado recovery efforts. These events will include lots of fun, prizes and a great after-party. Details are available at Scavenge Rowlett and Scavenge Garland.
Additionally, a decision has already been made to continue the Rebuild Rowlett 5K as an annual event to be held on the day before Easter. Those who wish to participate can register for 2017 at www.RebuildRowlett5K.ItsYourRace.com.