The Sprint for D.A.R.E. event in Monroe, Conn., promotes family health and raises an average of several thousand dollars for Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.), the Monroe Courier reported on June 8.

The 14th annual 5k race was overseen by the Monroe Police Department, which runs the local D.A.R.E. program.

Community members of all ages joined in, from runners in the special children's race to an 87-year-old participant.

Runners competed in a raffle for a variety of prizes, including baseball tickets, a watch, a bicycle and even a Caribbean vacation.

'It's a terrific incentive to get people out and do something good for their body,' said Barbara Masuk, the race's co-director.

A core group of sponsors has supported the race for many years, said Masuk, including Mr. Handyman, whose owner and president is a Monroe resident.

Many other local businesses sponsored the event and donated food for the snack table.

'It's such a community feeling,' said Masuk. 'You're out there for yourself, but it's a healthy, friendly competition.'