Inspiration Strikes
In the rolling hills of Utah, in the midst of a predominantly Mormon population, a colorful Hindu tradition imported from India blossomed into glorious life: the Holi Festival of Colors. This vibrant celebration, hosted at the local Hare Krishna temple, was a spectacle of flying colors that captivated the hearts of thousands. Participants of all backgrounds gathered to eat, dance, and throw colored powder into the air and on each other in shared glee, soaking up the sense of community spirit and making indelible memories. Among those enchanted by the jubilant display were the founders of Color Me Rad, members of an organization called Lunch Sack Productions, who witnessed the festival’s exponential growth from 8,000 to nearly 80,000 attendees over just a few years.
Enthralled by the joyous chaos of the Holi Festival, the founders, already immersed in organizing 5K fun runs through The Dirty Dash, saw an opportunity to spread this exuberance far and wide. And so, in the spirit of embracing life’s vivid palette, Color Me Rad was born.
From its modest beginnings, with 35 events in its inaugural year of 2012, Color Me Rad swiftly grew in popularity. By 2015, over 100 races a year filled the calendar! Each event was a riotous exaltation of life, where participants reveled in a kaleidoscope of colors, transforming ordinary runs into extraordinary journeys.
An Unexpected Setback
And then, right in the middle of this whirlwind of success, disaster struck everywhere at once as the global pandemic cast a shadow over the world, bringing Color Me Rad and all other public gatherings to an unexpected halt. Dates were canceled, equipment was shelved, and plans were put on hold indefinitely. No one knew how–or even if–the popular race would continue. As often happens, however, a beacon of hope emerged from the ashes of adversity. As the world began to open back up three years later, Lunch Sack Productions decided to resurrect Color Me Rad by gifting the event with a new purpose.
In a gesture of unparalleled generosity, Lunch Sack Productions bestowed the Color Me Rad brand and all event operations equipment to Liberty Launch Academy (LLA), a local 501(c)3 non-profit school nestled in the serene enclave of Liberty Lake, WA. For LLA, a school dedicated to expanding educational horizons beyond traditional boundaries, this collaboration was a match made in heaven.
The Mission of LLA
At the core of Liberty Launch Academy beats a heart pulsating with a commitment to fostering unique educational journeys. Their vision transcends the confines of traditional schooling, seeking to enrich the lives of students and ignite their passions. It is a vision that resonated deeply with Lunch Sack Productions, igniting a partnership that would redefine the purpose of
Color Me Rad.
For LLA, hosting Color Me Rad isn’t just about organizing another event; it is about harnessing the power of community to create positive change. With every stride taken in the Color Me Rad 5K Run, participants are not just sprinting toward the finish line; they are running toward a brighter future for students in Liberty Lake.
Central to this colorful endeavor is LLA’s scholarship fund, a wellspring of opportunity for students yearning to embark on educational adventures that will shape their futures. Every dollar raised through Color Me Rad flows directly into this fund, unlocking doors of opportunity for students and paving the way for a brighter tomorrow.
As the community rallies behind this newfound partnership, parents, school administrators, educators, and individuals from all walks of life are joining forces to ensure the success of Color Me Rad. It isn’t just a run; it is a testament to the transformative power of education and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead for a community united.
Join the Fun
As the call to action resounds through the hills of Liberty Lake, individuals from far and wide are invited to answer. Join us at the Color Me Rad event on June 15th, 2024, in Liberty Lake, Washington. Expect a day of laughter, great food, fun photos, and the spirit of celebration. Together, let’s embrace the joy of making memories while making a difference.
Color Me Rad has found its new home at Liberty Launch Academy, not just as an event but as a catalyst for change, a victory for hope, and an homage to the colorful tapestry of life itself. Sign up today to be a part of the magic!
