Allegheny Valley Salvation Army to launch kettle drive with 5K run/walk

The Allegheny Valley Salvation Army wants to get a running start on its red kettle drive this year.

The Brackenridge-based group will launch its iconic red kettle campaign in November with a new 5K run and walk, and a 1-mile fun run for kids ages 12 and under.

The Red Kettle Race will be held on Nov. 16. It will follow a flat course from the Salvation Army at 917 Brackenridge Ave., into Tarentum and back.

Lt. Alex Senak, a pastor at the Salvation Army with his wife, Lt. Kelsey Senak, said they hope to get at least 100 runners.

“We want to make this our thing,” he said. “We want to do well this year and do it every year.”

Race and walk participants can register for $20 until Oct. 26. Registration costs $15 for the kids’ fun run. Those who sign up by then are guaranteed to get a shirt. Registration after Oct. 26 will cost $5 more.

The kids’ fun run will start at 8:30 a.m., followed by the 5K run and walk at 9 a.m. A pancake breakfast for runners and walkers is included and will follow at 9:30 a.m.

Awards will be given to the overall top male and female finisher of the 5K run. Medals will be given to the top three men and women in six age groups — 19 and under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60 and up.

Senak said the Salvation Army hopes to raise at least $5,000. All proceeds will go toward the 2020 Christmas kettle goal, which he said is $125,000.

Last year, the Salvation Army raised $130,000, Senak said.

“We think we can do it,” he said of reaching this year’s goal.

Registration is available online.

For information, call 724-224-6310.