Spotlight With David Daggett: The We Care Run

It is hard to believe, but the Triad has some of the highest levels of food insecurity in the country. I suppose we all hear the news, but there is a group here in town that does a lot more than hear – they do something about it!  This is the fifth year of the We Care Walk/Run for Hunger put on by St. Peter’s World Outreach Center (SPWOC).

I have had the privilege and honor of announcing this event since it first started, and it quickly became a cause close to my heart. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about the passion and enthusiasm this group brings to helping those less fortunate.  You can join us either virtually from November 14 -21, or in person with safety protocols on November 21.  This year there is a 1-mile, 5k, and 10k events all within the safety of the Salem Creek Greenway.

For those who are not familiar, St. Peter’s Church runs what they call a We Care House and a We Care Garden. The We Care House is an outreach of SPWOC where they distribute food and clothing to church members, visitors, and the community. They also grow fresh vegetables in their garden to supplement the food distributed through the We Care House, which is a partner of the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina.

Unfortunately, the need for the services of the We Care House is only growing. In 2020, the We Care House provided food to more than 6,294 individuals in Forsyth County compared to only 3,717 individuals in 2019. The pandemic has hit our community hard, especially the most vulnerable members in our community, and as the need grows, our response to that need must also grow.

As with all the local events I am involved in, this is a 100% local, home-grown initiative, and the money raised through this race stays in the Triad to help our neighbors.  Of course, there are some traditions that you will love.  The minimum age for our finish line cheerleaders is 80 (although they won’t let me tell how old they actually are)!  Also, you can race against the “Faster Pastor,” Pastor Sloan!

Please join us for fun, passion, and to support a great cause in our community.  Run, walk, donate, or just join us for a big dose of St. Peter’s love!  And, as always, everyone gets a Championship Reception at the finish line!