Laurel Memorial Run/Walk

The Laurel Memorial Run/Walk - Celebrating people with Down syndrome & other developmental disabilities!

The Laurel Memorial Run/Walk takes place the third weekend in July each year. This two-day event offers several ways to participate:

Event Overview

• Friday, July 17: Jamestown-to-Dunkirk relay run (free, but participants are encouraged to raise donations)
• Saturday, July 18: 8K Run, 5K Run, 5K Awareness Walk, 1K Awareness Fun Walk, Children's Runs, Laurel's Legacy Lap
• Relay Details: Day One consists of a 31-mile relay run, as well as "The Laurel-thon" for people who want to cover the entire relay route themselves.
• Proceeds: Go to Filling the Gap, Inc., to support services for people with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities at The Resource Center.

Funds Supported

• Laurel Run Fund: Supports employment opportunities for people with disabilities, plus advocacy & awareness initiatives.
• Dr. John Vona Smile Fund: Supports the delivery of dental services to people with disabilities.
• Donations: Click here to make a donation to support people with disabilities.
• Event Details: Detailed information is available on our official site.

Event Details

Friday, July 17

• 8:00 a.m. - Opening ceremonies at The Resource Center, Jamestown
• 8:30 a.m. - Laurel Memorial Relay Run begins
• 9:00 a.m. - Jamestown version of Laurel's Legacy Lap at McCrea Point Park
• 12:30-2:00 p.m. - Victory celebration at The Resource Center, Dunkirk

Saturday, July 18

• 7:00 a.m. - Participant check-in and late registration begin: Basket Raffle opens
• 8:30 a.m. - 5K Run, 5K Walk and 1K Walk begin
• 9:00 a.m. - 8K Run begins
• 10:00 a.m. - Children's Fun Runs

Participant Information

• Registration: Everyone who pays the registration fee will receive a Laurel Memorial Run/Walk shirt and a commemorative medal.
• Fundraising: Create a personal fundraising page: raise $50 or more to waive registration fee and receive your shirt and medal.
• Processing Fees: Save money by registering several people at one time.
• Prizes: Cash prizes for top finishers, and all who finish will receive a medal.

Virtual Events

• Participation: Sign up for a virtual run, walk or other activity if you can't attend in person.
• Support: Show your support for people with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities.

Registration Deadlines

• Costs: Registration for the 8K Run, 5K Walk, 1K Walk is $25 for adults and $20 for children.
• Group Registration: Registering for both 5K and 8K is $35 for adults and $30 for children.
• Online Closure: Online registration closes at 11:59 p.m. Thursday, July 16.
• T-Shirt Guarantee: Register by 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, for guaranteed t-shirt at the event.

Background

The Laurel Memorial Run/Walk was created by Wayne and Elaine Hotelling in honor of their oldest daughter, Laurel, who had Down syndrome. Laurel was the Grand Marshal of the event for many years. After her passing in 2017, the event continues to celebrate her spirit.

Membership Opportunity

• Join Us: The Resource Center is a membership organization: membership is open to anyone age 18 or older.
• Types of Membership: Become an Associate Member for free or Annual ($10) / Lifetime Member ($100).
• Membership Benefits: Members receive a Membership Card with discounts at about 50 businesses.
• Advocacy Strength: More members strengthen our voice for people with disabilities.

Donation Support

If you're unable to join us, please consider making a donation to show your support for people with disabilities.