HeartReach, a long-established, innovative and ever-expanding pro-life pregnancy center in the Mat-Su, will host its annual 5K for Life on June 17. While the all-ages, family-friendly event is free, it’s also one of three primary fundraisers conducted each year to support the center’s work to protect unborn life and support parents in need. This year’s theme is “Kick Back the Shadows.”

Launched in 1985 by a group of Mat-Su residents to help young women and parents who felt unprepared to care for a baby, and who might be considering an abortion, the outreach has expanded considerably over the past four decades.

One of the newest HeartReach initiatives is the Mobile Medical Unit, a high-tech medical bus that can travel to more remote areas of Alaska to provide free ultrasounds, pregnancy tests and STI tests.

In addition to offering free professional medical services, HeartReach runs a no-cost market for parents, with items such as clothes and baby formula. The nonprofit also provides support from pregnancy to parenting, as well as several abortion recovery classes and medication that can reverse chemical abortions.

The upcoming 5K includes running, walking and biking options, along with a toddler dash. There will be door prizes, a photo booth, kids’ tent and free food and drinks for all. Click here for early registration (June 1-15).

RACE DAY (June 17) DETAILS

— Location: Trunk Road Park & Ride

— 9 AM: Late registration

— 10 AM: Bike race

— 10:30 AM: Foot race

— 12 PM: Toddler dash

— No pets allowed.

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