Jyotsna Joshi discovered her passion for running in 2005 when she first participated in Senior Concern's annual Love Run.
The 73-year-old Westlake Village resident has run in local races every year since then.
“It's a lot of fun. Especially in today's world where everything is so dark, it's the best part to get that elation from everyone running the race,” said Joshi, who now runs a few miles almost every day. “It inspired me to continue this work.”
But it's not just the endorphins, it's the cause behind Senior Concerns' fundraiser that's why she'll be participating in the 30th Anniversary Love Run on Sunday, June 2nd. And she will bring others as well. Joshi's team has consistently been one of the top three in fundraising and membership for the past 20 years.
Senior Concerns is a Thousand Oaks-based nonprofit organization dedicated to serving seniors, their caregivers, and families, and Love Run is one of their most important fundraising events.
All proceeds from the run, including from runners and walkers as well as sponsors, go to the organization's Meals on Wheels program, which began in 1975.
“While the need is growing, funding for this program has been significantly reduced, making the funds raised through Love Run even more important,” said Senior Concerns President Andrea Gallagher. Stated.
During the pandemic, demand for meals for homebound seniors increased from 2,400 to 6,000 meals per month in Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village, Agoura Hills and Oak Park. Mr Gallagher said demand remained at this level.
Joshi says the reason he spends his time each year recruiting other participants and raising money beyond the participation fee is because he knows where the money goes and believes in the work of the group's volunteers. Told.
“It’s a huge impact,” she said. “In some cases, Meals on Wheels drivers are the only people homebound seniors can see, talk to, and interact with, so what they provide is more than just food.”
Event participants can participate in one of three races: 5K, 10K, or 1 mile. There are also two virtual “runs”.
Registration fee includes pancake breakfast and mimosas (for ages 21 and older), finisher medal, shirt, and photo and ranges from $35 to $55, depending on race. The virtual “Doggy Dash” is $15 for him, as is the entry fee for his children 8 and under who participate in the one-mile race.
To register for Senior Concerns' Love Run fundraiser or for more information, visit online at www.loverunwestlake.com or call (805) 497-0189.
become a volunteer
For the 30th annual Love Run, which will be held June 2 in Westlake Village, Senior Concerns is inviting schools, sports organizations, local employers, service organizations and other nonprofit and faith-based organizations to participate in the We are looking for individuals and groups to volunteer in a variety of activities. An important role on race day.
From May 29th to June 1st, we are looking for volunteers to prepare and pack goodie bags, distribute packets, and answer questions. They will also be needed on June 2 to check in race participants, monitor the course and supervise water station staff.
“Volunteers are the heart and soul of Love Run,” said Senior Concerns President Andrea Gallagher. “They are essential to ensuring a successful event.”
Volunteers will receive a volunteer shirt, a free pancake breakfast, and a front-row seat to the event's various activities.
To sign up as a volunteer, visit tinyurl.com/LoveRunVolunteers.