Be the reason a child smiles!

Runners and walkers of all athletic abilities are invited to participate in the 10th Annual Smart Smiles 5k at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 19 at Mariners' Museum Park. Hosted by the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Virginia Peninsula, the 5K benefits the Smart Smiles dental program. The Smart Smiles program ensures that children get the dental care they need by offering dental education and care to Boys and Girls Club members who need it most, regardless of their family's ability to pay. Club staff members schedule the appointments, provide transportation by picking the members up from school and dropping them back off, sitting with the children during the appointments, and relaying necessary information back to the parents. This is a benefit to parents who struggle with the challenge of leaving work to take children to appointments.

Military members and those under the age of 18 can register for the 5K for $15 through August 6. Early registration for all other participants is only $20 through August 6. A free race shirt is guaranteed to anyone registering by July 20. Because the race is solely organized by staff and volunteers, 100 percent of the profits goes directly to the Smart Smiles program. Last year the youngest racer was just 2 years old, and the oldest was 92!

 To register or for more information, visit the Boys & Girls Clubs Smart Smiles 5k website.