Whether running, walking, or cheering, the day program athletes and supporters who participated in track races on May 10 brought a wave of positive energy to the spring fitness event, which took place under bright and sunny skies. The annual spring races returned to the Underhill Sports Complex in Maplewood after a three-year Covid hiatus, and were part of The Arc of Essex County’s new “Couch to 5K” fitness programming.

Participants could choose to run quickly, run slowly, or walk the track. Each group completed one lap around the track while dozens of their fellow day program participants cheered them on from the sidelines and the bleachers. After crossing through the yellow tape to mark their finish, each runner or walker received a medal, with the top three receiving special first-, second-, and third-place medals. After the consumer races were complete, the direct support staff completed their own race around the track to resounding cheers of encouragement.

Dancing was also a common scene throughout the event, either in the bleachers or on the track and field area between races. The music was DJ’d by Roderick, a consumer in the Opportunity Zone day program.

Do you have a loved one interested in attending The Arc of Essex County’s Adult Day Services?  Click here to learn more about our programs, and reach out to The Arc of Essex County’s Director of Day Services Traditional Programming, Kristina Olszewski, to learn how you can enroll: [email protected] or (973) 535-1181 ext. 1295.