The CASA West CenLa 5K Color Run is returning to DeRidder this weekend. At 8:30 a.m. Saturday, March 23, over 100 of Southwest Louisiana and West Central Louisiana locals will join in on the third annual Color Run. Each year, this event kicks off the organizations observance of Child Abuse Awareness Month in April.

A representative with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) said that this timing is purposeful.

“We feel that doing the run at this time is a good launch pad for our Child Abuse Awareness month events The previous runs have inreased our online activity and in essence helped to get the word out.”

The mission of CASA is to bring awareness to child abuse and neglect to communities in West CenLA. The organization is made up of community volunteers that “stand up and speak out” for abused and neglected children. Recruited volunteers are trained to advocate for these children in both courtrooms and communities. CASA West CenLa is one of 127 community-based programs in Louisiana and almost 950 nationally.

In addition to raising awareness and funds, the CASA Color Run also helps to increase the number of potential volunteers and agency support.

The Color Run is a perfect opportunity to get outside and move for a good cause. The run is suitable for all levels of fitness, and participants can “run, walk or stroll” the five kilometers.

The only requirements are to “come out and have a good time” and enjoy the “morning full of fun, lots of color and great energy.” Participants will become “running rainbows.”

At the start of the 5K, each runner will receive a bag of color powder for them to toss in the air at the beginning of the run. To keep things vibrant, color stations will be placed along the routes.

The race is not chip-timed, but timing is available for those interested. Participation medals will be passed  out; First place male, first place female and first place child under 12 will receive special recognition.

No dogs will be allowed on or off leash, per the City of DeRidder.

The race begins behind 1st Street School on Bon Ami Street, DeRidder.

The last day to register online is at 12 a.m. on Friday, March 22. At 7:30 a.m. the day of the run, there will be an opportunity to register in-person.

Registration cost is $30 online and in-person; Registration the morning of the event is cash only.

Register online at runsignup.com/Race/LA/DeRidder/CASAWestCenLaCOLORFUNRUN.