NORTH BRUNSWICK – More than 400 runners and walkers are expected to memorialize a beloved teacher from Linwood Middle School.
The fourth annual Purple for Pappas 5K will be held on Oct. 21 beginning at 8:30 a.m. at Community Park, 2053 Route 130, North Brunswick. Rain date is Oct. 27.
In the spirit of the mission of The Aubrey Foundation, the race will celebrate the life and legacy of longtime North Brunswick teacher Aubrey Pappas, who was killed with her unborn son in a tragic automobile accident in October 2014.
The mission of the Foundation is to foster a strong North Brunswick Township community and to empower local students to achieve their goals, according to a statement from the foundation. Over the past three years, revenue from the “Purple for Pappas 5K” and other fundraising endeavors have allowed The Aubrey Foundation to donate more than $30,000 in local scholarships, including $21,000.00 to graduating seniors at North Brunswick Township High School, as well as local first responders and Make-A-Wish New Jersey.
Proceeds from the 2017 Purple for Pappas 5K were given to Naomi Gobena and Deanna Graulich for charity/community service, Sarah Keller for health/nutrition, Karine Lozewski for the arts, and Kayla McCargo overcoming obstacles.
During the 2018-19 school year, the foundation, in cooperation with the North Brunswick Board of Education, is establishing a new club at Linwood Middle School, where Pappas taught sixth grade Language Arts for 13 years. The club will help to perpetuate Aubrey’s memory by fulfilling goals that align with the #LiveLikeAubrey mission, including community service, and other activities that inspire good in the community
This year’s event will begin with Opening Ceremonies at 8:30 a.m., and will feature music from Elite Entertainment, videography by Hurricane Productions, professional photography from Kristy Ann Photography and performances from local student groups.
Chartwells Food Service, Thomas Sweets Ice Cream and High Grade Beverage will provide free refreshments.
Showstoppers Plus will decorate the race course and park.
Vendor tables will be set up to provide entertainment, food, children’s activities and giveaways.
An awards ceremony will be held at the conclusion of the race, followed by The 4th Annual Purple for Pappas After Party, hosted by TGI Fridays on Route 1 in North Brunswick.
To learn more about The Aubrey Foundation, or to register for the 5K, www.TheAubreyFoundation.org.