The concept is cool, and the cause even better: Walk or run the Miles for Medicine 5k to help provide medications for the uninsured, then wrap things up with pancakes, bacon and beer!
“We were looking for a unique way to bring people out to learn about our mission to be the pharmacy home for low-income and uninsured people, but in a fun-filled way,” said Kristin Young, foundation and communications director for the statewide nonprofit pharmacy NC MedAssist.
“Our goal is to raise awareness and funds in an area that we already serve; we distributed nearly $165,000 in free over-the-counter medication to 1,300 local residents this past April through our OTC Medicine Program.”
To serve more people, MedAssist is adding a full-time staff person in Cary. The upcoming 5k is its first local fundraiser.
At Fortnight Brewery
Young says the first Miles for Medicine race, held in Charlotte last fall, saw 600 participants and raised more than $30,000.
“We can provide $13 in critical life-saving medication to our neighbors in need with every dollar raised,” she said. “We are currently serving close to 13,000 individuals across the state and we know we need to reach even more. There are still over 360,000 individuals in North Carolina who are uninsured, even with the addition of the Affordable Care Act.”
Miles for Medicine will be hosted by Fortnight Brewery in Cary. Those who raise $288 dollars, and teams that raise $1,000 collectively, will enjoy all-you-can-drink beer.
“Lace up your running shoes, fill your pockets with a couple of dollars for beer and donations, and come out to Fortnight Brewery to have a great time,” Young said.
Miles for Medicine 5k Walk/Run
Saturday, June 18 at 9 a.m.
Fortnight Brewing Company, 1006 SW Maynard Road, Cary
