Photo submitted to the Times Observer Elliott Bevevino and his Big Brother Graham at Wicked Warren in their awesome 4th of July capes.

The streets of downtown Warren will come alive as Wicked Warren’s and the Jefferson DeFrees Family Center team up to host the second annual Freedom Fundraiser 5K Run/Walk and Kids Dash on Saturday.

The family-friendly event not only celebrates freedom but also raises money for NF2 BioSolutions in honor of Elliott Bevevino, a local 4-year-old boy battling Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2), a rare genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on the brain, spine, and nerves. Diagnosed in 2021, Elliott is already blind in his left eye and faces continued health challenges as the disease progresses.

The Freedom Fundraiser begins with music from DJ Felix Ortiz at 8 a.m. in downtown Warren. The 5K Run/Walk kicks off at 9 a.m. at the downtown fountain, where participants are encouraged to wear their most patriotic athletic attire. A special Kids Dash begins at 10:30 a.m. for children six and under, who are invited to dress as their favorite superheroes in honor of Elliott. Race distances will vary by age group, with 1-2-year-olds racing 25 yards, 3-4-year-olds racing 50 yards, and 5-6-year-olds racing 100 yards.

“The purpose of this family-friendly event is to bring people together while supporting a worthy cause,” said Pam Hahn, graphic designer for the event. “Downtown Warren is a beautiful city where you can find smiles and caring people around every corner. Every community needs positive events, and this one will be a crowd-pleaser for sure.”

Participants in the 5K Run/Walk will compete for finisher medals awarded to the top three in each age bracket, as well as trophies for the overall first-place male and female runners. An American flag flown over the Pennsylvania State Capitol on Flag Day in Elliott’s honor will be awarded to the most patriotically dressed participant, courtesy of state Rep. Kathy Rapp, R-Warren.

The Kids Dash will feature prizes for first, second, and third place in each race, with finisher medals for the first 75 registrants, courtesy of the Jefferson DeFrees Family Center. Kids will also have the chance to color their own superhero race bibs before the event.

Throughout the morning, prizes, giveaways, basket raffles, and community fun will continue on Second Avenue between Liberty and Pennsylvania Avenue West.

All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit NF2 BioSolutions, a Pennsylvania-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting research and treatment development for NF2. Founded and operated by NF2 patients and their families, the organization directs every dollar raised toward life-saving research.

Sponsors include Pennsylvania Energy Company, IA Construction Corp, United Refining Company, A&B Heating, Sunrise Collaborative, Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Nice Ash Cigars, Reishore Clothing, Frantz & Russell, Rouse, and Wegman’s. Additional prize donors include the Erie Zoological Society, Senator John Heinz History Center, Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad, Museum of Illusions, Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium, Target, Pittsburgh Pirates, Chloe’s Creamery, Gaughn’s Drug Store, and Arbor House.

Wicked Warren’s will also offer Elliott’s Elixir on tap starting in late June, with $2 from every pour donated directly to NF2 BioSolutions.

“Don’t want to run or walk? Grab a sign and cheer on the participants,” organizers said.

Volunteers are also still needed to help the event run smoothly.

Registration is $40 for adults, $35 for kids under 18, and $10 for the Kids Dash ($25 with an event T-shirt). Participants can register or donate online at:

https://secure.getmeregistered.com/get_information.php?event_id=MTczMzMzMzg2MzA3OTkQzTslwq8fMHrz

Cash-only registration for the Kids Dash is also available at Wicked Warren’s or the Jefferson DeFrees Family Center. Donations will be accepted at both locations.

For more information, sponsorship inquiries, or volunteer opportunities, contact info@wickedwarrens.com or newwestdesign@hotmail.com. Updates and packet pick-up details will be posted on Wicked Warren’s Facebook page.