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BERKELEY — Wanted: Runners, families, and anyone else who would like to support a program that provides children with the information and skills they need to live drug- and violence-free lives. That is what the money raised at the June 19 5th Annual Berkeley DARE Classic 5K and 1-Mile Run/Walk at Veterans Park will go toward, said Officer Scott Selby, who teaches the program to fifth graders at the Berkeley Township Elementary School. The run, which is being held at Veterans Park, is sponsored by the township police department, recreation department, Municipal Alliance, and Berkeley Township Education Association. Visit www.berkeleydare.com for more information. T-shirts, water bottles, food, music, raffles, awards and activities for children, including face painting, spin art and temporary tattoos, will be part of the fun. Last year about 600 people attended, Selby said. The DARE Classic 5K is a USATF-sanctioned race, which means it conforms to USA Track and Field's standards for competition and safety. In addition, it ensures that the course is accurately and professionally measured, and it is nationally certified in the event that a record time is set during the race. Selby said the goal of DARE is to give kids the tools that they will need to avoid negative influences and instead make good decisions for themselves. Also, it helps to foster positive relationships between students and law enforcement, teachers and parents. Some of the proceeds from the event are used to purchase prizes to give to children who win DARE contests, such as a poster contest and essay contest, that Selby holds throughout the year. This year's DARE graduation will be held 9 a.m. June 15 at the Berkeley Township Elementary School.
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