Caring Heart Run Set to Benefit the Caregiving Youth Project of Pinellas- 5K, 1 mile run/walk scheduled for Valentine’s Day.LARGO - It’s a chance to recognize and benefit the many area youths who provide care and support for their family members— ill or disabled parents, aging grandparents or siblings. It’s the Caring Heart Run – a 5K and 1 mile run/walk – and it’s set to take place on February 14. The numbers of youth caregivers is staggering: On average, one in every four children attending Largo Middle School and Largo High School is responsible for providing care to family members. The Caring Heart Run will directly benefit those children who carry the weight of incredible responsibilities through the Caregiving Youth Project of Pinellas (CYPP). “This is a unique opportunity to show that we recognize those who are taking care of others in the community,” says Jeni Coticchio, executive director of the Caregivers Support Network. “On Valentine’s Day, it is a fitting tribute to share our love for the ones who take care of their loved ones each day.” The CYPP is only the second of its kind in the United States. The program identifies and provides support to help the burdened youth stay in school and encourages them with in-school counseling, mentoring, tutoring and assessing the needs of the family. The program gives kids a chance to enjoy their childhood despite the burdens they shoulder each day. The 5K and 1 mile run/walk registration will take place at 7 a.m. with the event starting at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, at the Palms of Largo campus (400 Lake Avenue, Largo). In addition to bringing attention to the issue of youth caregivers in Pinellas County, the Caring Heart Run will also help provide funding for Community Support Groups at The Palms of Largo for Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease , Amputee’s, Arthritis and Gluten Intolerance. Participants can pre-register online for $20 before February 12, or anytime after that for $25. The Caring Heart Run will include awards, refreshments and a t-shirt. For more information on the race, please visit www.caregiverssupportnetwork.org, where you can fill out a registration form online. About the Caregiving Youth Project of Pinellas: The CYPP started at Largo Middle School and will expand to Largo High School. The Caregivers Support Network was created by the founders of The Palms of Largo, Sidney Goodman and John Goodman, to encourage and support the community in which we are located. The Goodman’s are a major employer in the City of Largo and believe in the value of establishing an exceptional quality of life for all of the people they touch — whether they are the residents who live on the 96-acre campus of The Palms of Largo or their families or the dedicated employees and professionals they work with in the greater community. Sidney and John Goodman believe in developing and creating an environment that focuses on wellness in body, mind and spirit for all.
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