Blueberry 5K Raises Funds for Early Childhood Education

The Jess Parrish Medical Foundation (JPMF) Blueberry 5K Run/Walk held on May 6, 2017 at Holland Family Blueberry Farm raised more than $8,000, exceeding the goal by more than $3,000. Proceeds benefitted the Parrish Early Care and Education (PECE) program at The Children's Center in Titusville.

“We’re honored that PECE was selected again this year to be the beneficiary partner with Holland Family Blueberry Farm. The community supported this event through sponsoring, running, walking and volunteering which helped us exceed our goal so more children can have an early start in life and be more successful in school,” said Gene Sego, chair of the JPMF Board of Directors.

More than 350 runners, walkers and volunteers participated in the seventh annual Blueberry 5K. The PECE program provides high-quality developmental and educational care in fully inclusive classrooms where typically developing children and those with special needs learn together. Through collaboration and coordination of specialized services, The Children’s Center (TCC) is located in south Titusville and houses eight partner agencies, including Nemours Children’s Specialty Care. TCC annually serves more than 2,000 families. The center offers a continuum of care to all children, regardless of ability or socioeconomic status. Families with special needs children and/or typically developing children can receive numerous health, therapy, education and child development services in a single location.

The committee secured sponsorships by community members and organizations. Platinum sponsors include UnitedHealthcare and N. Christine Sylvester. Gold sponsors include Jeffrey M. Barlow, DDS, PA; Canaveral Plastering Inc.; Coastal Ambulance Service; DECO, LLC; Bill and Rachel Terry; and The Watauga Company. The event was chip timed and managed by Space Coast Event Management.

For more information, please contact 321-269-4066 or visit parrishmedfoundation.com.