New community driven initiatives announced ahead of Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — As Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend approaches, organizers have announced several initiatives to benefit local communities and make the event more inclusive.

First, they are giving out some complimentary race entries to people who could not otherwise afford to participate. The price to register can cost hundreds of dollars depending on the race. Illinois American Water made a $5,000 donation that will go towards giving those free entries out to community members.

Some of the recipients include students at multiple Champaign elementary schools and Race Weekend Charity Running Partners.

Organizers are continuing to provide free running shoes and socks to kids running in the 5K or Busey Bank Youth Run through their non-profit organization, "Kicks for CU Kids."

Financial support for the program will come from multiple local organizations and race participants. The organization expects to give out over 160 pairs of shoes this year.

Finally, the event is also adding a "Welcome Wave" designed for people with disabilities to their youth run event. Participants will receive added support from race volunteers, including being the first group to go after the national anthem.

"These expanded programs will help us all grow together and create opportunities for everyone to succeed on and off the race course," said Jan Seeley, the race director of the Illinois Race Weekend.

The event is set for April 24-26 and will feature several races and marathons.