Northwest Special Families (NSF), a program of the Center for Human Services, will partner with the Northshore YMCA to host the 4th Annual Can Do 5K/10K on March 31. Brooks and Woodinville Pediatric Dentistry will present the event, which will take place at Seattle Times North Creek in Bothell. Registration is open at 7 a.m. and events begin at 8:20 a.m.

Last year’s event featured more than 1,200 registered participants and many community teams; together they raised more than $22,000 to help fund NSF’s year-round programs. This year, more than 1500 participants are expected.

The Can Do 5K/10K brings awareness to what individuals with special needs can do.

“On this day,” says steering committee member Pilar Dowell, “we celebrate the challenges kids and adults with disabilities face—and overcome.”

The Can Do is a fully inclusive race where individuals with and without disabilities race side by side. Amy Young’s 12-year-old son has participated in the 5K walk in the past and looks forward to finishing the 5K this year.

“It’s such a great community event,” Young says. “We see accomplished athletes, new runners, athletes with physical and developmental disabilities, regular walkers and families, and seniors and children all participating together.”

Each participant and team is encouraged to reach out to their community to raise funds. Proceeds from the Can Do 5K/10K help NSF offer new and expanded opportunities and programs in the community, such as inclusive and specialized camps, ongoing education and support with guest lectures and workshops.

The funds also support the Northshore Y’s annual campaign, Partners in Youth. This campaign is dedicated to providing programming to children who otherwise would not have the opportunity to participate in programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Participants can register online at www.CanDo5K.org.