Delaware Youth Center River Race Returns Sunday, Funding Programs for Local Kids

The Delaware Youth Center’s largest fundraiser of the year returns to Callicoon on Sunday, with organizers expecting about hundreds of runners, walkers and supporters to take part in the 28th annual River Race.

The event has become a summertime tradition along the Delaware River, raising tens of thousands of dollars each year to support youth programs, recreational facilities and community activities that serve local families.

Race Director Edward van der Schans said participation has remained strong, with this year’s event on pace to match last year’s turnout.

“We’ve got about 500 people expected to join us,” van der Schans said.

The race begins at 8:15 a.m. Sunday and same day registration is available.

A fundraiser that supports year-round programs

Last year’s event raised just over $50,000, and organizers hope to meet or exceed that total this year. Those funds help support an annual operating budget of more than $200,000.

“The success of this race is really important for the facility and for the local community that use the Youth Center throughout the year,” van der Schans said.

The money helps operate the center’s facilities and subsidize programs including summer camps, swimming, arts and crafts, pickleball and other activities for children and families.

“As I’m sure you’re well aware, the cost of running facilities like this continues to go up,” he said.

A community tradition

Van der Schans credits the event’s continued growth to widespread local support.

More than 60 sponsors are backing this year’s race, most of them local businesses and families. Radio Catskill is a sponsor of this year’s race.

Many sponsors also participate in the race themselves, creating a cycle that benefits both the Youth Center and Callicoon’s business community.

“It does benefit the local businesses in return,” van der Schans said. “So I think that’s why it keeps on growing and growing.”

He said what stands out most is the number of people willing to contribute.

“For me, it’s how many people do what they can, realize the importance of the Youth Center, and year after year continue to support us and the race.”

Multiple ways to participate

Participants can choose a 5K run or walk, a 10K race or a virtual option. Same-day registration will be available Sunday morning.

The virtual race honors the memory of Gary A. Winglovitz, who attended the Youth Center as a child before his death at a young age.

Van der Schans said the memorial event has expanded well beyond the local community.

“We’ve had runners that have joined the virtual run from as far afield as Europe, Australia,” he said. “The virtual race is a really good way to support the Youth Center.”

Image Credit: Delaware Youth Center