If last year's Brigance Brigade 5.7k race proved anything, it's that people will come out to support a good cause, even in the pouring rain.
First time participant Jeff Dudley, who is running the race this year, is hoping for a bit more sunshine.
"Hopefully the weather will be a lot better," he said with a smile.
Dudley is the assistant general manager at the Boathouse Canton, which supports the 5.7k and is hosting the official after party for the race this Sunday April 30.
"I have the opportunity to give something back to the community that I'm a part of, so its very important to me," he said.
This is the fourth year for the 5.7k race, which raises money for the Brigance Brigade Foundation. Its founder, former Raven OJ Brigance, was diagnosed with ALS in 2007. He still works with the Ravens and he and his wife Chanda oversee the foundation.
Brigance wore the number 57 on the field, and now, 5.7 represents the number of kilometers people run to raise awareness about ALS.
"We provide hope and help, we provide financial support to families for things they can't find elsewhere or that aren't covered by insurance," said Amanda Mummert, director of the Brigance Brigade Foundation.
ALS is a progressive disease that can require expensive equipment like wheelchairs, breathing machines and communication devices. Mummert says the average cost for a family who has a loved one with ALS is around $200,000 a year.
"That's where the Brigance Brigade Foundation is able to step in, cover the co-pay and help these families to live better, more independent lives," said Mummert.
Almost all of the funds raised through the foundation stay in Baltimore.
"We are strong on our own, but together we are unstoppable," said Mummert. "That's what we really need to do, we want to show people that all things are possible fighting ALS."
You can register for the 5.7k race up until race day. There is also a 1.57k family walk and a kids fun run. For more information on race day and how to register, click here.
