Moving Mountains 5K races towards changing lives

With every step, runners at the Moving Mountains 5K are not just racing toward the finish line – they’re racing to change lives. The upcoming Moving Mountains 5K for Adoption, sponsored by Faithful Bible Church and spearheaded by nine passionate high school students, is set to take place on Sunday, Nov. 3, at Aberdeen Elementary School.

“Our Adoption Fund helps provide grants for adoptive families to aid in the cost of pursuing adoption, as well as education scholarships, medical grants and other special consideration grants for adoptive families and their children attending Faithful Bible Church,” explained Michelle Cuthrell, adoption ministry coordinator. “Last year, we were able to give away $16,500 in adoption grants which went directly to help families pursuing adoption.”

The Fund is a vital source of support for families pursuing adoption, covering medical care, meals, and other essential services for adoptees and their new families. Participants in the 5K can expect a supportive and family-friendly atmosphere, with a free authentic German lunch following the race.

Jayden Kaun, a freshman at Pinecrest High School, spoke passionately about the impact of adoption in his life, sharing how his own sister was adopted.

“She adds a very special part to our family. I can’t imagine life without her!” Jayden explained. “God calls us to care for the orphans because He adopted us into the kingdom of God. We all can make a difference by stepping out and doing something as small as signing up for an adoption 5K.”

The event is not just about raising funds but about building awareness of the global need for orphan care. Joel Cuthrell, a sophomore at Pinecrest High School, echoed his teammate’s sentiments, sharing how personal adoption is to him as well.

“Both of my little brothers were adopted from China,” he said. “My family believes that every child should have the right to grow up inside a family who will love and care for them.” Joel’s role as sponsorship coordinator gives him insights into communication and event planning, skills he’ll carry with him beyond this event.

Salem Capps, a co-director for the event and a sophomore at Father Vincent Capodanno High School, highlighted the broader impact of the race.

“It is not just a running event, but we are working toward something greater,” said Salem, whose family has also been formed through adoption and believes that everyone can play a role in raising awareness. “Adoption is not the only way to make an impact. Everyone’s role can be different.”

Canon Capps, also a sophomore at Father Vincent and the event’s course director, has been impressed by the community spirit surrounding the race. From coordinating the course layout to securing donations for water stations, Canon has worked on organizing the logistics of the event.

“The most exciting part for me is those who are there to help out at the race, those who run, and those who support us for our cause,” he said. Canon, who is an adoptee himself, stressed the importance of this event. “Adoption is one of the best gifts you could have. We are trying to raise $23,500 to bring home kids who want to know what family is.”

The students hope to exceed last year’s total of $16,500, and their determination to raise $23,500 this year is clear.

“A very small donation could be part of changing a family and a child’s life forever,” Jayden encouraged.

For those looking to get involved, there are multiple ways to contribute – whether by running, donating, or purchasing a T-shirt. The students of Faithful Bible Church have demonstrated that, together, small actions can move mountains.

The event is free to attend, but the church promotes early registration and the purchase of T-shirts, with all proceeds going directly to their Adoption Fund.

For more information, contact Faith Bible Church on Facebook, at faithfulbiblechurch.com, or by emailing Michelle Cuthrell directly at [email protected].

Feature photo: Left to right: Halle Baynes, Morgan Baynes, Salem Capps, Zeph Capps, Brooke Gilbertson, Joel Cuthrell, Micah Wachob, Jayden Kaun, and Canon Capps. Contributed photo.

~Written by Sandhills Sentinel Assistant Editor Abegail Murphy. Abegail has been writing for Sandhills Sentinel since 2021.

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