Are you ready to lace up your running shoes and make a difference in your community? The 2024 St. Elias Cedar Run 5k & Cedar Shake Fun Run is just around the corner on April 13, and it's the perfect opportunity to support a great cause while getting some exercise and having a blast.

Hosted by St. Elias Maronite Church as part of their Lebanese Food Festival, the race events benefit local charity, Just Keep Smiling, which is dedicated to providing support and resources to families facing medical crises. This event promises to be a day of fun, fitness, and philanthropy. Whether one is a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to spend a Saturday morning, there's something for everyone at the Cedar Run.

The main event is the Cedar Run 5k race, which winds its way through the neighborhood streets of Glen Iris and kicks off at 8 a.m. For those preferring a shorter distance or want to bring the whole family along, the Cedar Shake Fun Run is the perfect option and begins at 9 a.m. With a more relaxed atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to high-five fellow runners, it's a great way to get the whole community involved.

The Cedar Run is about more than just running, though—it's also about giving back to those in need. All proceeds from the event go directly to Just Keep Smiling, allowing them to continue their important work supporting families during some of their most difficult times.

In addition to supporting a great cause, registering for the Cedar Run also comes with a host of perks. The first 200 registered participants will receive a race t-shirt and a goody bag. 5K runners are eligible for overall and age group prizes. All registered participants are eligible for raffle prizes and can enjoy face painting and balloon artists while receiving early entry to Saturday’s Lebanese Food and Cultural Festival.

For more information or to register, visit steliascedarrun.com. The church is located at 836 8th Street, South in Birmingham.