Sometimes, the race is real.

This coming Monday, the eighth annual Carying Place Labor Day Race, Walk & Dash is a fun-filled family day with a larger mission: To empower working, homeless families to achieve self-sufficient living.

“When I knocked on the doors of The Carying Place I was humbled, never imagining I’d have such a need,” said Mary (not her real name), who was living in a hotel room with her children two years ago when she reached out for help.

“Thank you for caring for me and my family … I didn’t interact with you a single moment where I felt like genuine love was lacking. My family is grateful to you!”

Serving our community since 1993, the nonprofit Carying Place helps families achieve self-sufficiency through a 16-week program focused on managing personal finances, parenting, finding affordable housing, and maintaining employment.

Following “graduation” from the program, mostly-volunteer mentors keep in touch with each family to reinforce the skills learned and help them maintain viable financial and housing plans. To date, the organization has worked with more than 300 families, with a success rate near 90 percent.

All proceeds of Monday’s race, which also features a food truck rodeo and kids’ activities, go to support the mission of The Carying Place.

The Carying Place Labor Day 10k or 5k Run, Walk & Dash

Monday, Sept. 7

7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary

Entry fee for the 10k is $30/$35 on race day; 5k is $25/$30; walk is $15/$20.

Register: fsseries.com/carying-place-10k-and-5k