By Emily Ford

Teens With a Mission

SALISBURY — The First Presbyterian Church mission trip to Mexico this summer will mark a big step in the faith journey of the teenagers who participate.

But before they can take that step, the teens need others to run.

They are hosting the Teens With a Mission Mission Run on Friday night in downtown Salisbury to raise money for the trip to Mexico, where they will build a home for a family in need.

“The Teens With a Mission 5K is a beautiful expression of what living in God’s world is all about,” organizer Delaine Fowler said. “We have a faith community at First Presbyterian that wants the youth of our church to take steps in their spiritual journey by serving in the mission field.”

The Half-Mile Super Hero Fun Run will begin at 7 p.m. The 5K Walk & Run will begin at 7:30 p.m. Both races start and end at First Presbyterian Church on Fisher Street.

Fun Run participants are encouraged to wear their favorite superhero or character costume. The Fun Run costs $10, and the 5K costs $20 (or $25 for those who register at the race site Friday). All participants will receive a T-shirt.

Early registration is offered through Thursday at www.sportoften.com. Race-day registration will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday.

All registered participants are entered to win door prizes from local businesses, including gift cards, gift baskets, running gear and more.

The fastest runners in a variety of categories will also win awards shaped like hammers, a reminder that the race supports building homes for the needy.

It’s the 13th year for the Mission Run and the eighth year on the certified course through historic downtown Salisbury.

“We have people from all over come to run and enjoy the beauty of God’s world on a fantastic course through historic Salisbury, knowing they are helping a great cause,” Fowler said. “There will be so many volunteers along the course cheering for the runners sending positive energy along the way.”

All money raised will help send more than 35 Teens With a Mission high schools students and advisers to Mexico in July to build homes. The teens also volunteer at Rowan Helping Ministries and completed other local mission work earlier this year.

“It’s just a great race,” Fowler said. “We hope that no matter what age or fitness level, people feel welcome to come enjoy the TWAM Mission Run.”