Above / Plans for the final G.L.O.W. 5K, billed as “the last lap,” have been announced. (PN File Photo, 2018)
Update, Sept. 27, 2023 / Earlier this week news reached us that Patricia (Pat) Nicarico had died on Sept. 23, 2023, after a long illness. A celebration of Pat’s life with a visitation will be held from 10 to 11:30AM on Fri., Nov. 3, 2023, at St. Raphael Catholic Church, 1215 Modaff Rd., Naperville, IL, to be followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 AM. The Memorial Service is being handled by Friedrich-Jones.
Condolences to the Nicarico family with fond memories of their commitment to literacy and fitness that engaged the community with love and respect.
Original Post, April 21, 2023 / The Jeanine Nicarico Memorial Fund for Literacy will host its final G.L.O.W 5K on Sat., May 20, 2023. The tent opens at 6PM, music starts at 6:30PM, and the race kicks off at 8:15PM, all at 5th Avenue Station.
For two decades, the 5K run/walk has been held to support the Naperville community’s commitment to literacy, fitness and family. First held at Hill Middle School, then at River Woods Elementary, the Run for Reading event now is called G.L.O.W. 5K, beginning and ending at 5th Avenue Station. Advance registration is strongly encouraged for this popular event at www.nicaricoliteracyfund.org or www.naperglow5k.com.
At the end of the race, participants are invited to stay for the post-5K party including awards, refreshments and live music.
All proceeds go directly to the Jeanine Nicarico Memorial Fund for Literacy to acquire and distribute resources that provide enriched literacy opportunities for the learners within the Naperville Community.
Since 1996, the fund has awarded over $500,000 in grants to private and public schools in Naperville Districts 203 and 204, which includes portions of Bolingbrook, Lisle, Plainfield and Aurora. In addition, support has benefited Little Friends, Turning Pointe Autism Foundation and Project H.E.L.P, as well as professional learning literacy funds for EC-12 schools in D203 and D204. Additionally, the fund provides annual support to the Jeanine Nicarico DuPage County Children Advocacy Center in Wheaton, IL.
The evening event again will have a glow theme.
“So grab your friends and come out glowing for a fun 5K run/walk,” organizers say. “Or just come out to enjoy the event by cheering folks on. Live music will play from Tres Mustache, a local band.”
Chip Timed, 5K course route to and from 5th Avenue Station
This Chip Timed, 5K course route takes participants on a scenic run through one of Naperville’s established neighborhoods. The race begins at 5th Avenue Station, winds down Plank Road, with a flat stretch, ending up back at The 5th Ave Station building for a celebration tent with food, refreshments, live music and awards from local businesses. Water and encouragement will be provided along the course.
Registration is now open / Packet pick-up is May 18-19
Registration is available online at www.naperglow5k.com or www.nicaricoliteracyfund.org. The registration fee is $40 per person for adults and children 12 and under $30. All pre-registered participants will receive an official G.L.O.W 5K Run technical running t-shirt, runner/walker number, one food ticket and one adult beverage ticket, and a virtual goodie bag with coupons from our sponsors.
For more information and complete event details, visit www.naperglow5k.com or www.nicaricoliteracyfund.org.
Race Packet Pick-Up is available from 10AM to 7PM on Thursday, May 18, and Friday, May 19, at the Naperville Running Company, 34 W. Jefferson Avenue in downtown Naperville. Organizers advise that no registration or packet pick-up (t-shirt, bib number/timer) will be available on race day.
Awards for speed, individual ‘Glow’ costume and ‘Glowing Team’
Awards will be presented to the top overall male and female runner, to the Best “GLOW” costume and Best “GLOWING” Team along with cross town rivalry winner for the local schools at all levels. Results will be posted on the fund’s website www.nicaricoliteracyfund.org and award winners will be recognized at the event.
Post 5K Party
Following the race there will be a food and beverages provided by local sponsors, Belgio’s Catering, Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House and Aurelio’s Pizza.
Entertainment provided by Tres Mustache performing at 6:30PM. Last call 9:45PM and tent closing at 10:30PM. Photo ID required for individuals drinking beer or wine, must be 21 years of age with a valid ID.
Wrapping up a good run for a winning cause
Tracey Nelson returns as Race Director for the final run.
“Walk /Run or be a spectator, but come…,” added Nelson. “Come to the 21st Annual and final Jeanine Nicarico Memorial Fund for Literacy G.L.O.W. 5K Run/Walk for Reading. Give literacy an opportunity to win.”
Story submitted by Kathy Brown for Jeanine Nicarico Memorial Fund for Literacy. (PN Photos)
Last Updated, May 18, 2023.
