During each year a variety of ways are taken to raise funds for cancer research. One of the most unique, and one that is growing in popularity, is the annual 5k Leprechaun Run that will be taking place on Saturday, March 17.

The run starts at the Community Arts Center, traveling through the city streets and finishing by the Moon & Raven Public House, according to Rex Hilton, one of the organizers of the event. The pre-registration fee, by March 14th, is $20, which may include a vintage race t-shirt if available. Day of registration the fee is $25, with no shirt guarantee — so sign up quick. The entire family is encouraged to participate; children under 10 are free and will receive a participation medal. There will be place awards in various age categories, overall race awards in both the female and male category, as well as costume awards for the best-looking leprechauns. The Moon & Raven will be hosting a post-race Runners’ Reception to all registered runners/walkers, offering a free Guinness or Magners beverage to those 21 and over and a free soft drink to younger participants.

K’s for Cancer is a 501(c)(3) public charity founded in the memory of Justin Flannery Hilton. Justin passed away in January of 2013, after a five-year fight against cancer. K’s provides direct and immediate financial support to cancer treatment patients, and their families, in Lycoming County. Relationships have been established with UPMC Susquehanna and Geisinger Medical Center. At both locations, healthcare providers will assist in the application for support and are authorized to provide funds immediately. There is no restriction as to where a patient is treated, only that they are a Lycoming County resident. All applications must be validated by the healthcare provider.

All money raised stays in Lycoming County. The board of K’s for Cancer are very proud to say that the overhead of K’s is extremely limited. Participation by officers and board members is totally voluntary. No salaries or any form of payment is made to any individual.

Current officers and board members are: Fred A. Holland, Chairman of the Board, Rexford B. Hilton, President, Lori Moore, Vice President, Karen Kibler, Treasurer, Jamie Rose Young, Secretary; Kelly G. Crist, LeeAnn Gephart, Frank Guardini, Jason B. Hilton, Jake King, Ryan M. Tira, Joshua D. Young and June Zimmerman.

“Fundraising is challenging, that is why we try to appease varying interests in the events we host,” Hilton told Webb Weekly. “In addition to the Leprechaun Run, we host a dunk tank, courtesy of the Stone House, during Little League and we are supported by the Justin Flannery Hilton Memorial Golf tournament held each year at the White Deer Golf Course, the first Friday of August.”

In 2017, over $30,000 was provided to over 100 patients residing in Lycoming County. Unfortunately, the need continues to grow. They estimate a budget of $40,000 in 2018.

Community support is paramount in their ability to meet demand. Donations can be made to the K’s for Cancer organization at any time via their website, http://www.ksforcancer.org or by mail at K’s for Cancer, P.O. Box 103, Montoursville, PA 17754.