The second Annual Newtown Road Race will kick off on Saturday, September 1, at Dickenson Park in Newtown with proceeds benefiting Newtown Youth & Family Services.

This fun, family event last year brought more than 500 runners from the surrounding communities to a morning of kid’s activities and races for all age groups. All individuals are welcome – runners, walkers and jogging strollers.

Between the Kid’s Run and the 5K Race, last year’s Newtown Road Race raised more than $25,000 for Newtown Youth & Family Services.

All runners will be entered in a post race raffle and will receive goody bags and race t-shirts.

The scenic course in Newtown is certified by the USATF. The 5K is limited to 1,000 people. To enter for free, visit www.Active.com and follow directions to create your own personal web page and ask friends and family to sponsor your run. With a $150 total donation, you race for free!

Pre-entry fee is $20 and on race day, $25. Pre-registration is encouraged at New Balance, 83 Stony Hill Road (next to the new Big Y). Race day registration will be from 7:30 to 8:30 am and the race begins at 9 am, rain or shine.

For the Fun Run, kids pay their age up to $10.

Parking is available on site and at Taunton Press, 63 South Main Street (carpooling is encouraged).

Race applications are available at 10 Glen Road in Sandy Hook, at the Cyrenius Booth Library, Union Savings Bank, and many locations throughout the area.

The beneficiary non profit organization – Newtown Youth & Family Services – is the recently merged organization of Newtown Youth Services & Family Counseling Center. These well-respected, volunteer-driven agencies have been improving the quality of life in the greater Newtown area for a quarter of a century offering programs for positive youth development, support groups, as well as job & leadership training.

Their state-licensed counselors provide therapy to individuals, couples, families and groups regardless of the ability to pay. Newtown Youth and Family Services is a strong resource for children and families in the area whose mission is to help all citizens reach their potential.

For more information about volunteering or sponsorship opportunities or the race, visit www.newtownroadrace.com or call Jen Madej at 203-426-0551. Newtown Youth & Family Services is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.