For the past thirteen years, Merry Heart Senior Care Services has proudly sponsored an annual 5K Run to raise funds for local charitable endeavors. This 3.1 mile, USATF-NJ sanctioned race, a 500-point New Balance NJ Grand Prix event, has always attracted both members and non-members. The 2008 race, held on June 2, had well over 800 registrants and 748 official finishers.

Last September, after careful consideration of the demands of our growing business, the owners and managing staff of Merry Heart have determined that the time has come to “pass the torch” of the Merry Heart Community Benefit 5K Run. We are delighted that the race will continue under the direction of the Morris County Striders running club. The Striders have always been very ardent supporters of our race, not only as competing runners, but also with feedback, suggestions, and help. They will be very capable sponsors and are excited to have the opportunity to serve the community.

And They're Off!

The 2009 run will be held on Monday, June 1, under the title “Roxbury Community Benefit 5K Run. Most of the arrangements and set-ups will remain the same. Madeline Bost will continue as Race Director. It will be held at Eisenhower Middle School starting at 7:00 P.M., rain or shine.

For further information, log onto the Morris County Striders website at www.morriscountystriders.com.

Merry Heart will always be grateful for the support given us by the Roxbury community. We will always cherish the special friendships we have forged with our co-sponsors, donors, volunteers, and runners.

We hope that you will join with the Morris County Striders in continuing this popular community event. Here are some photographs of our final race, the 2008 Merry Heart Community Benefit 5K Run: