AWARDS/PRIZES ~ Trophies and medals for the top three finishers in each age category and to the overall, masters (age 40-49),and grand masters (age 50 and up) male and female winners.  Registration fee included a Brooks microfiber long-sleeve T-shirt (for adult 5K registrants), the best after-race refreshments in Michigan, and a chance to win one of many fantastic prizes.  All runners and walkers received a medal of participation.

HOW DO I REGISTER? ~ Note: Registration for 5K is limited to first 700 registered.  The race is listed, among other Michigan races, on a website calendar provided by www.playmakers.com,a sporting good store in Okemos, Michigan.  The race registration form is available to download from this page as well as from Playmakers website.  You can register on www.active.com (for an additional $3.00 processing fee) through March 24th, the day before the race at Playmakers or on race day at the event (see race registration form for details).

RACE HISTORY ~ In the early 1980’s, students in the dietetic program at Michigan State University designed a community service project that would help the Lansing area food banks raise money and educate individuals about hunger in their community.  Today, the nutrition professionals of the Lansing Dietetic Association, with support from Playmakers, continue to plan the race and dedicate themselves to help the Greater Lansing and Michigan State University (MSU) Student Food Banks raise money and community awareness for the many people the food banks serve.  Held each year during National Nutrition Month (March), this fund-raiser provides a great public service by encouraging physical activity for individuals, families, and children and by raising the public’s awareness of dietitians and their role as nutrition experts.  

In 2003, the Food & Fitness 5K received the Group Public Relations Award from the Michigan Dietetic Association.

RACE DESCRIPTION ~  The Lansing Dietetic Association’s Food & Fitness 5K Run/Walk is one of the longest existing races in mid-Michigan.  In 2007, 800 people participated in the event.  The race itself is composed of a 5K walk or run for adults, a ½ mile kids’ run or walk (for children 7-12 years of age), and a kids’ 100-yd dash  (for children 2-6 years of age).  

Children and adults enjoyed the refreshments, displays, music, children’s activities, and most importantly the chance to raise money for the greater Lansing area food banks.  Volunteers from the food bank were on hand to educate race participants about the emergency food needs of the greater Lansing area and what their organization does to combat the plight of hunger in the community.  

In 2007, as well as in past years, the Food & Fitness 5K was endorsed by the Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Health & Sports. 

FUND RAISING ~ To date, race participants have helped the Lansing Dietetic Association (LDA) donate over $70,000 to the Greater Lansing and MSU Student Food Banks.  These donations help the food banks assist the more than 1,500 families per year, or over 4,000 individuals (~50% of whom are children) in need of emergency food assistance.  

NUTRITION EDUCATION ~ A number of activities were available to teach race participants about nutrition and regular physical activity.  Each year, area organizations provide innovative ways to encourage adults and children to make better nutrition decisions.  Other sponsors provide informative materials to give consumers several examples as to how to live a healthier life through good nutrition and fitness choices.  Registered dietitians were available to answer nutrition questions.

RACE SPONSORS ~ This community-wide event would not be a success without the generous support from our sponsors.  These sponsors were asked to donate prizes and refreshments for race participants, provide money for race expenses, or to donate money directly to the food banks.  In addition to contributing to a worthwhile activity, sponsors received positive publicity in several ways.  Click here to view the 2007 sponsors.

Donation Opportunities for Businesses and Organizations

VOLUNTEERS ~ Numerous volunteers are needed each year to plan the race as well as on race day.  Volunteers consist of Lansing Dietetic Association members, Playmaker's employees,  MSU students and friends and family of Lansing Dietetic Association members.  If you are interested in participating in the race planning or volunteering to help on race day, contact Lora Cochran, Volunteer Chair: ljfcochran@hotmail.com.

Donation Opportunities for Businesses and Organizations

Committee Descriptions for Volunteers
Food-N-Fitness 5K Run/Walk