(Corning, IA) — A new community event is set to bring color and energy to Corning on Saturday, April 11, as residents of all ages and ability levels are invited to take part in a Color Run and walk.
The two-mile route will begin and end at the Central Park square, just north of downtown near the Corning Opera House. A shorter walking route will also be available. The event starts at 9 a.m., with same-day registration open until 8:45 a.m. Participants who register by Wednesday, March 25 will receive a free t-shirt. Parking will be available at Central Park until 8:30 a.m., when access will be closed.
The event is being organized by the Southwest Valley High School Student Council and National Honor Society. Registration costs $25, with all proceeds benefiting the Thirst Project, an organization dedicated to providing clean drinking water systems in communities around the world. Organizers note that 100 percent of donations go directly to projects, as operational costs are covered by a separate foundation. This marks the second year the two groups have partnered to raise money for the cause.
Color Runs feature stations along the route where participants are showered with safe, powdered paint, adding to the fun and creating a colorful experience. The powder is designed to be safe for runners and will not leave permanent marks on streets or surfaces. The events have grown in popularity nationwide, and Corning is the latest community to host one.
“Our students were fortunate enough to present at the State Student Council Conference last fall on their fundraising efforts,” said Southwest Valley High School Student Council Advisor Mike Cormack. “Between a Middle School Coin War Challenge, an upcoming High School Volleyball Tournament, and this event, we hope to continue raising funds for a deserving cause while also bringing something fun to our community. We encourage everyone—from elementary students to retirees—to come out and join us.”
National Honor Society Advisor Rachel Campbell has also played a key role in organizing the event and is hoping for strong community support. Both advisors emphasized that students are volunteering their time to give back locally while supporting global efforts to improve access to clean water.
Those unable to participate are still encouraged to attend or make donations.
During the event, streets around the town square will be temporarily closed, though access to downtown businesses will remain available via alternate routes from the south. The course will not cross Iowa Highway 148 and will stay within designated boundaries north of Adams/8th Street, south of 14th Street, and west of Loomis Avenue. Route markers will be posted the morning of the event and removed afterward.
Organizers hope the Color Run will become a new annual tradition in Corning. For more information or to pre-register, contact Mike Cormack at mcormack@southwestvalley.org or Rachel Campbell at rcampbell@southwestvalley.org, or call the high school at 641-322-4242.
