Photo submitted to the Times Observer One of children participating in the Freedom Fundraiser 5K and Kids Dash is pictured crossing the finish line.

More than 200 people came together to raise $7,800 in July by participating in the Freedom Fundraiser 5K and Kids Dash.

The money will be donated to NF2 BioSolutions in honor of 4-year-old Elliott, who was diagnosed with rare genetic disease Neurofibromatosis Type 2 in 2021.

The American flag that was flown over the Pennsylvania Capital on Flag Day in honor of Elliott. The award for the most patriotic dressed person was awarded Nathan Seelinger. Additional door prizes were given after the award ceremony of the 5K.

In addition to the basket raffles, there was a kids run hosted by the Jefferson Defrees Family Center.

Children from ages 1 to 6 participated in a dash of their age group which was led by Elliott’s big brother Graham.

First place prizes consisted of tickets to the Erie Zoo, Pittsburg Zoo and Aquarium, and Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad. Second place winners won $15 worth of ice cream for Chloe’s Creamery and third place winners won a day pass to Goat Fort for all age groups. Each child received a finisher medal.

“It was a success”, says Melinda Johnson, executive director of the Jefferson Defrees Family Center. “Next year we will add another dash for 7-10 year olds.”

Sponsors include A&B Heating Cooling Plumbing, IA Construction, NAPA Auto Parts, Nice Ash Cigars, Pennsylvania American Water, Reishore Clothing, Sunrise Collaborative LLC, Superior Tire & Rubber Corp., Pennsylvania American Water, Warren County Memorial Park, JC Warren Real Estate, United Refining Company, Frantz & Russell Sanitation Services, Pamela Hahn Graphic Design, Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, JP Photography, Wegman’s, Stone Hill Chocolates and Bob Cummin’s General Contractor.

“We’re proud to have such a strong community standing with us,” said Rob Roth, CEO of Wicked Warren. “Thank you for helping us run for freedom, run for a cure, and run for Elliott.”

The 2026 event will fall on Friday July 3, and will include the Freedom “Glow” run. The Kids Dash will start at 7 p.m. with the 5K starting after that. Contact info@wickedwarren.com for more information about sponsorships.