Every Sunday from April 11 to May 9, children from prekindergarten to eighth grade can participate in the Healthy Kids Running Series at Daniel's Den Playground at Manor Church, 530 Central Manor Road, Lancaster. Dana Atticks, community coordinator, has been running the Lancaster series for five seasons.

"I fell in love with running in 2015; it really changed my life," said Atticks. "I feel like I've been given an opportunity to use my passion to help and support others."

Atticks became coordinator after she assisted a friend with organizing the series in the spring of 2017. When her friend asked if Atticks would like to take over as coordinator in the fall, Atticks felt as if it was something she was supposed to do.

"I have four children, and my three girls have been a tremendous help ever since I took over the series," noted Atticks. "They do the warm-ups, the timing ... it's been a family affair."

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the series was postponed in 2020. This year, however, families are able to come back and participate.

"I've been trying to build up the series for families in Lancaster County because I feel as though we've been so disconnected during the pandemic," said Atticks. "I really just want people to come out, meet their neighbors, and encourage their kids."

Throughout the series, runners earn points and those with the most points earn trophies, but all participants receive medals. Each season, the coordinator selects one runner as the recipient of the Healthy Kids Award.

"This award is for someone who embodies the whole idea of being a healthy kid," explained Atticks. "During my first season, I gave the award to an inspiring boy with autism who just gripped my heart. He showed up every week, ran his race, and never gave up."

At the end of the series, parents have the opportunity to participate in a mile run while their children watch.

"I promote this because it's a way for us to show our kids how much they inspire us," noted Atticks. "Our kids come out every week and do their best. Let's show them what their effort does for us."

To sponsor the Healthy Kids Running Series, visit https://healthykidsrunningseries.org and search for the local series. For more information, contact Atticks at hkrslancaster@gmail.com or 717-413-6458.