Loma Linda University Health is hosting its 2nd annual Power of Inclusion 5K on Feb. 22 at 8:00 a.m. at Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus, located at 25333 Barton Road, Loma Linda.
This year’s event will benefit the grant and scholarship fund of Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities — a free, non-profit community outreach program for individuals with permanent physical disabilities. These grants include adaptive equipment, accessibility grants, educational scholarships, social outings to community events, and more.
“We are very excited about our second annual Power of Inclusion 5K event,” says Pedro R. Payne, PhD, director of community outreach and patient experience, Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus and LLUMC Surgical Hospital. “It is an opportunity to come together as a community and enjoy a healthy trot around Loma Linda. PossAbilities is all about inclusion so we hope everybody comes out to participate and have a good time with us!”
The theme of the 5K this year, “United We Stand,” corresponds with the 3rd annual Power of Inclusion conference, which will take place March 31 and April 1. This year’s conference will focus on veterans as vital components of the rich tapestry of talent at Loma Linda University Health. The purpose of Power of Inclusion is to educate, engage and energize staff, students, faculty and community members toward developing more inclusive cultural practices in all they do.
“Loma Linda University Health is blessed to be richly diverse, with individuals of all backgrounds, races, nationalities, career experiences and personal characteristics coming together to make a positive difference in the lives of others,” says Cari M. Dominguez, PhD, chief talent and diversity officer at Loma Linda University Health.
“We believe that diversity inspires creativity; inclusion unites individuals; and access provides opportunities. We celebrate and promote these three messages on our campus,” she adds. “We hope everyone in our community comes out to run, walk or roll in support of the power of inclusion.”
Registration for the 5K is $35 per person, and free for athletes with disabilities. Online registration is now open until February 20 at http://possabilities.gemininext.com/. Onsite event registration will open race day at 6:00 a.m. and close at 7:45 a.m.
All participants will receive official finish times, and finisher medals will be given to all participants.
Volunteers are also needed for the day of the event but must be at least 10 years old. To volunteer go to www.teampossabilities.org/POIvolunteers.