November 5, 2012
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Holly Littles
Client Liaison/Public Relations
843-488-5360
[email protected]
Run for the Children 5K Race
Gives Back to Local Mentoring Program
Conway, SC- In the first annual Derrick Law Firm’s Run for the Children 5K race, the local community will bring awareness to the exceptional work of the Children’s Mentoring Program of Horry County on January 5, 2013.
Founded in 1989 by Julius and Polly Derrick and the help of Surfside Rotary Club and the United Way, the Children’s Mentoring Program was started to help the special needs of children across the county who had the absence of a significant male or female influence in their lives. After retiring as one of Conway High School’s most well-known football coaches, Julius Derrick saw the need for mentors for young children. Because Julius was raised in an orphanage as a child, he understood first hand how important it is for children to have strong role models.
"Children missing one or both parents have a greater need for a positive role model in their lives. This program is devoted to giving them that, and I am happy to see this race bringing awareness and support to our organization," says Julius.
Currently in the mentoring program, there are 75 children who were recommended by a family member, guardian, or teacher, and 25 mentors. There is always a great need for dedicated mentors to be a part of the program. To become a mentor, one must be matched with a children who has similar interests as well as a background check by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
Mentors vary from business professionals, to students, to retirees. Mentors must commit a minimum of one hour per week and engage in activities that the child likes to do. Many times these activities are as simple as going to a movie, playing basketball, or going to the park.
When asked how she felt about Derrick Law Firm Injury Lawyers sponsoring an event to benefit the Children’s Mentoring Program, Polly Derrick said, "I’m very excited! I think it is a fun idea."
The mentoring program has one major event each year to raise money and that is their banquet. They sell tickets for a steak dinner and recognize "Mentors of the Year" who have demonstrated outstanding service. The Run for the Children 5K race will be another way to generate additional income for the organization.
For those who would like to participate in Derrick Law Firm Injury Lawyers’s Run for the Children 5K race, they may visit www.grandstrandrunner.com for online registration or may print the registration form and mail it to the address listed. If interested in volunteering time, please contact Holly at 843-488-5360 or email [email protected].
