HORTONVILLE — As Hurricanes Helene and Milton wreaked havoc across the southern United States, recovery efforts are happening right in our own backyard.

The Live.Love.Serve 5K race, hosted by the Small Town Country 4-H Club, will be taking place October 20th at 9 a.m. to raise money for the Small Town Country 4-H Scholarship Fund.

During their bi-monthly meeting the night of October 7th, it was decided they were also going to gather donations of supplies, food items, and money to send to the 4-H club in North Carolina to benefit hurricane victims.

“It not only raises awareness of our programs and scholarship funds, but also allows for our kids to engage in health and wellness programs, planning and event organization,” said Stefanie Johnson, mother of Small town Country 4-H Club member Addilyn Johnson.

This event was especially made possible by the generous donation of a tractor trailer, the time and the fuel by Kay’s Trucking.

“I’m so excited to help gather supplies for the people in North Carolina affected by the hurricane. It warms my heart and all of the people donating are so generous. I love that my 4-H club is doing this, it is so nice and I am so glad I’m a part of it,” said Addilyn. “My 4-H club is teaching me how to give back to the community and the importance of working together to get things done!”

Currently, the plan is to park the tractor trailer at North Branch Self Storage so it can be filled in the weeks leading up to the race.

When race day comes, the truck will be moved to Hortonville so racers don’t miss the chance to donate to this important supplication of goods.

It’s important to note that the 5K day will also be the last day for item donations.

“We are so proud of our kids for jumping on board and hitting the ground running with ideas on how we can be helpful to those in need!” noted Stephanie. “We’ve all seen the devastation Hurricane Helene caused, and when our 4-H leader Jenny Phelps spoke to the group about the idea all the kids were immediately and enthusiastically on-board. They were coming up with all sorts of ideas and strategies, including how to drive awareness and what kind of supplies would be helpful.”

The age limit for the race is eight and up, but everyone is still encouraged to come around and show their support.

If you would like to register for the race, you can visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Hortonville/LiveLoveServe4H5K.

Entry costs $25 for non-4-H members and $15 for 4-H Youth members. A $35 charge will apply for same day registration.

In addition to age group prizes, racer bags (first come, first served), and the top three overall male and female honors for runners and walkers, there are also age group awards.

The course is a crazy eight course that is USATF certified and winds along the Callicoon Creek and the Hortonville hamlet. beginning in front of the firehouse, traveling along Main Street, turning onto CR 121, then descending 17B and returning to the village. After completing two rounds, the race will end behind the firehouse.

If you cannot make it to the race but would still like to donate, you can do so by reaching out to Barb Moran at bjm292@cornell.edu to coordinate donation deliveries.