The Awesome 3000: A Beloved Community Tradition Empowering Salem's Youth
On a misty, gray morning at Bush's Pasture Park in south Salem, the annual Awesome 3000 youth fun run was in full swing. Hundreds of excited children, from preschool to high school, gathered to participate in this beloved community event, which has become a rite of passage for generations of Salem-area kids.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Achievers
A Celebration of Camaraderie and Accomplishment
The energy was electric as the kids warmed up, some dressed in elaborate costumes and others simply eager to test their speed. The crowd of parents, siblings, and friends cheered enthusiastically, creating an atmosphere of pure joy and excitement. "It's not about being the first one done," said Jeremiah Rasca, a P.E. teacher and volunteer at the event. "It's all about doing your best. If you do your best, if you finish the race, you win."
Fostering a Sense of Community
The Awesome 3000 has become woven into the fabric of the Salem community, with deep roots dating back to the early 1980s. What started as a small group of parents brainstorming ways to raise money for local teachers has blossomed into a beloved tradition that brings the entire community together. "It's just like, got this feel to it. You know, there's this buzz and this feel, and everybody is happy," said Jodi Blackman, the coordinator of the event.
Empowering Teachers and Students
The Awesome 3000 is more than just a fun run; it's a fundraising initiative that directly benefits the teachers and students of the Salem-Keizer Public Schools. Sponsors cover the cost of the event, while the runners' registration fees are used to provide grants for teachers, allowing them to purchase much-needed classroom supplies, equipment, and fund field trips. "We were kind of thinking, 'What are those things that teachers spend their own money on, that we could help and spend this money on?'" Blackman explained.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
The Awesome 3000 has evolved over the years, with the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley taking over the event and making it more inclusive and accessible. They've made it easier for parents of children with disabilities to participate, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to cross the finish line and experience the thrill of accomplishment.
A Beloved Tradition Endures
Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the Awesome 3000 has endured, returning stronger than ever. The event's core purpose remains the same – to raise money for local teachers and provide a joyful, inclusive experience for the community's youth. As Blackman eloquently stated, "Those kids hit that stadium and run past the stands, and everyone's cheering and, I mean, how many moments do you get like that in your life?"
