Snowshoe enthusiasts of all ages and fitness levels are invited to participate in a 5K event on Saturday, Feb. 3, at Sylvan Lake State Park.
The 6th Annual Snowshoe for Peru 5K will be held at 10:00 a.m. to benefit Corazon de Esperanza, a local non-profit that empowers impoverished women in Peru, and helps teens aging out of orphanages and who are at risk for human trafficking. Participants will be entered into a raffle with substantial giveaways with cash prizes for first place male and female winners in individual and age group categories.
CEO of the organization, Robyn Hanson, a long-time teacher in the Eagle County School district, first visited Peru in 2006. Overwhelmed with the needs of the children and women, she later spent a year volunteering there and returned home to Gypsum adopting five siblings from an orphanage. After returning, her passion to continue providing assistance grew.
Renowned as a fun day for both families and individuals, last year’s Snowshoe For Peru 5K featured over 100 racers.
“We have a great course that winds around Sylvan Lake Park with beautiful scenery throughout and snacks to keep you energized,” said Hanson.
Proceeds will help support youth services, educational sponsorships, women’s programs, short-term service trips and the volunteer programs of Corazon de Esperanza.
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“Our desire is to educate and provide resources so that Peruvian youth have the opportunity to get an education and live independently,” Hanson said. “We dedicate ourselves to give them every chance to succeed in life.”
The focus of the organization is Hogar Luz de Vida, a transitional home for at-risk teens who have aged out of orphan care. It is the first of its kind in Northern Peru. The services provided include empowering youth through the difficult transition from orphanage care to independent living.
“We believe that these young people deserve to have a safe place to live and have the opportunity to finish school, attend college or vocational training,” said Hanson.
Sponsors include The Vail Valley Jet Center, Calvary Christian Fellowship in Gypsum, Hilos y Semillas, The Bridge Church, Bill’s Point S Tire & Service in Vail, JB T-shirts, the Town of Eagle, and Eagle Rotary.
Registration Snowshoe for Peru 5K is $30.00. Participants can register online at http://www.snowshoeforperu.com, call 303-801-8958 for more information, or visit Corazon de Esperanza on their Facebook event page, “Snowshoe for Peru 5K.” On-site registration is cash and check only and begins at 9 a.m.
If you go …
What: 6th Annual Snowshoe for Peru 5K.
When: Saturday, Feb. 3, 10 a.m., on-site registration at 9 a.m.
Where: Sylvan Lake State Park.
Cost: $30.
Registration: http://www.snowshoeforperu.com.