Partnership for Community Health

Tired of winter? Ready to spring into action? In an effort to promote healthy communities and lifestyles, the Somerset County Wellness Committee is partnering with EmPoWER Somerset to sponsor a “5K Race to Wellness” for county residents.  The 5K run/walk will be held (rain or shine) at 9 a.m. on Saturday, March 29, at Duke Farms in Hillsborough.  Registration will open at 7:30 a.m.

Visit the Race Forum website at www.raceforum.com/racetowellness to register online. The registration fee for those who sign up by Tuesday, March 25, is $20. Participants will receive a race packet, including a long-sleeve T-shirt.  After March 25, the fee will increase to $25 and no T-shirt will be included in the packet.

“Improving the quality of life of the people we serve is a priority for Somerset County,” said Freeholder Director Patrick Scaglione. “Working with partner organizations, educating the public through awareness campaigns and promoting healthy lifestyle choices is consistent with that goal.”

“Somerset County has been ranked the third healthiest county in New Jersey. Our goal is to be ranked Number One, so we continue to improve, support and promote healthy programs and choices,” said Freeholder Patricia Walsh, Wellness Committee liaison. “Being active is an important part of wellness and prevention. We are pleased that the Employee Wellness Committee was able to partner with EmPoWER Somerset to offer the 5K race, not only to county employees, but to all residents of Somerset County.”

Prizes will be awarded to top finishers.  Proceeds will benefit Somerset County non-profit organizations, including EmPoWER Somerset, the Somerset Valley YMCA, Somerset County Business Partnership Tourism Council and Somerset County 4-H Youth Development.

Established in 2012, the Somerset County Employee Wellness Committee is dedicated to improving and maintaining the general health and well-being of all employees.  The goal of the Wellness Committee is to promote greater health awareness by providing information, activities and services designed to support healthy life choices. In April 2013, Somerset County Government was selected as a finalist in the Corporate Achievement Hero category in the 2013 Healthcare Heroes awards program sponsored by Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, Hackensack University Medical Center, Comcast Business Class, New Jersey Hospital Association and WithumSmith+Brown, PC.

For more information about the 5K Race to Wellness, contact EmPoWER Somerset at (908) 722-4900 or visit their website at www.empowersomerset.com.