Celebrating 50 Incredible Years
What began in 1976, when our former Executive Director, the late Chet Cole, ran 180 miles from the Florida Capitol to the Key Training Center, has grown into one of our most treasured traditions. This year, our community came together to make the 50th Run one to remember.
We are thrilled to share that this year’s Run raised a record-breaking $340,489! Over five decades, the event has now raised more than $6 million to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and provide scholarships for those who receive little or no state funding.
Throughout the week, runners, cyclists, families, first responders, clients, staff, and community members joined in. Our Community Runs logged a record 373 miles, and the Barnes family ran every day, completing an incredible 120 miles together!
The week wrapped up with our 17th Annual Walk A Mile in My Shoes and Runners Celebration Carnival. The campus was filled with families enjoying games, music, food, face painting, caricatures, and plenty of fun.
One of our favorite moments was watching our clients line the finish with colorful signs as the Core Runners made their way home. We also carried Chet Cole’s bronzed running shoes throughout the week, honoring the man who started this incredible tradition 50 years ago.
A Week to Remember
180-Mile Tradition
The journey from the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee to the Key Training Center continues the tradition Chet Cole began in 1976.
120 Miles Together
The Barnes family participated every day of the Community Runs and completed an incredible 120 miles together.
17th Annual Walk A Mile
The week concluded with Walk A Mile in My Shoes and a celebration carnival filled with family, friends and fun.
Because of You, the Tradition Continues
Thank you to every runner, volunteer, sponsor, donor, family, and supporter who helped make 50 years of the Run for the Money possible. Because of you, Chet Cole’s vision continues—and so does the impact we make together.
50 years. Thousands of miles. Millions raised. One incredible community.