Exercise is important for maintaining one’s health. Parents who homeschool have a duty to ensure that their children have a firm curriculum of exercise just as they would in gym class. One of the best things about homeschooling is that exercise and “gym” can take place in a number of public places like parks and even large museums or malls. A great way to get children interested in exercises such as running or walking is by using the opportunity to promote a charity. One such charity, that will prove appealing to animal-loving adults and children alike, is the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo walk to help save elephants.
The plight of elephants living in the wild is seemingly endless. Every year thousands are hunted and killed for their ivory and meat. Their numbers are dwindling all over the world and some experts speculate that within the next decade or two there might not be any elephants left outside of zoos and sanctuaries. Conservationists across the globe have done much to raise awareness of these issues in order to get as much support as possible from the general public.
The Bronx Zoo is a historical location in NYC that takes wildlife preservation seriously. The Bronx Zoo does much to educate people about animals in far off lands and their efforts have helped to raise money to aid many species that found themselves threatened. “Run for the Wild” is just such an effort aimed at elephants. Even though the event is considered a “run” participants are welcome to walk, or even stroll, and enjoy the scenery at a pace that they consider comfortable. Additionally, elephants are known to form strong family bonds and travel in herds and participants are invited to do the same thing by joining a running team.
The fifth annual 5k “Run for the Wild” event will be held at the Bronx Zoo on Saturday, April 27, 2013 from 7am-11:30am. Anyone who wishes to register is encouraged to do so as soon as possible since there is limited space and those who wait too long to join cannot be guaranteed entry. For non-members the registration fees are $35 per adult and $25 per child (anyone under 15). Bronx Zoo members may register at the discount rates of $25 for adults and $20 for children. Adults are required to pay a $30 fundraising requirement in addition to the participation fee (equaling $65 per adult for non-members and $55 per adult for members), children are not required to pay extra for fundraising purposes. Although these fees might seem high, every cent counts toward saving elephants.
Participants in the race have the opportunity to win fundraising prizes including a pop-up version of Dr. Seuss’s classic book “Horton Hears a Who,” plush elephants, bags, water globes, and perhaps even a special VIP breakfast. Furthermore, the pre and post run/walk festivities include music and face painting and many other activities that make the event extra fun. Moreover, registration automatically includes free all-day access to the zoo and free T-shirts for children.
According to the WCS newsletter, by “participating in Run for the Wild, you’ll help WCS continue to enhance our ecoguard programs, reduce poaching, and give elephants and other wildlife a fighting chance at survival.” More information can be found here: www.wcsrunforthewild.org
Finding ways to stay fit and healthy can be a challenge without motivation. Luckily, an event such as this gives people of all ages the desire to partake and help an important preservation mission. “Run for the Wild” is certainly an event of note for anyone who lives in the NYC area, likes to walk, and is interested in saving wild elephants.
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