Be a superhero for kids battling cancer

If anybody needs a superhero on their side, it would be children battling cancer and their families. Grab a cape and be a superhero for them and the local nonprofit Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada at the Superhero 5K with Chet Buchanan. It’s set for Sept. 15 at Exploration Park in Mountain’s Edge.

“This event is easily one of my favorite days of the year and another incredible shining example of what an amazing community Las Vegas is,” said Buchanan, event host, popular radio personality and longtime Candlelighters supporter. “It’s truly inspiring to see all of our superhero fighters, families and survivors come together to raise a lot of money, and have fun doing it.”

More than 2,000 attendees are expected to enjoy this fun-filled family event benefiting local families living with childhood cancer. New this year, the first 500 people to register receive a free cape; carnival games will be added to the Kids Zone’s slides and obstacle course; and Ellis Island is hosting a beer garden. Other activities include opening ceremonies, TruFusion warmup, awards ceremony for timed runners, Be the Match bone marrow drive, music from DJ CO1, booths, food and refreshments, and raffle prizes. Costumes are encouraged.

“All Superhero 5K proceeds benefit the hundreds of families and kids served by Candlelighters. We really like to focus on sending our kiddos to Camp Independent Firefly, but also need assistance in areas such as financial and emotional support programs,” said Jordan Nelson, Candlelighters special event coordinator. She’s hoping that $150,000 is raised but knows this goal can only be achieved through community support and participation.

There’s plenty of time to sign up — individually or recruit a team — and raise money for great prizes. Participants raising $100 receive a cellphone exercise sleeve; $250, blue tooth speaker; $500, wristwatch fitness tracker; and $1,000, VIP area access and a pair of Beats Bluetooth headphones. The VIP tent features shaded areas, seating, breakfast, mini massages, swag grab and private restrooms.

For registration and information, visit www.candlelightersnv.org or call 702-737-1919.

Mountain’s Edge welcomes supporters throughout the Las Vegas Valley in supporting Candlelighters. The master plan’s Exploration Park is the perfect event venue with many amenities attendees can enjoy, including a water play area, replicas of a Western town, American Indian village and archaeology dig site, picnic areas and walking and hiking trails.

Exploration Park is south of the main Mountain’s Edge entrance, 9275 S. Buffalo Drive. For new home and community information, call 702-898-5777 or visit www.mountainsedge.com.