SHARP Literacy Inc. and Summerfest Foundation announced today that the first "Kids Run to Read" fun run will be held on Saturday, June 14 at 10 a.m. at Henry Maier Festival Park. The event is part of the fourth annual Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run. 

Up to 250 children ages 6 to 12 are invited to participate in the one-mile race, which is expected to become an annual event. Young runners will receive a T-shirt, a race bib for coloring, a goody bag, a finishing medal and a healthy snack at the finish line. Each race bib will be coded to match the parents of each participant.

Registration is $12 in advance or $17 on race day, if spots are still available. Parents will be required to sign a waiver for their child to participate. Race packets will be available at the Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run Health & Fitness Expo, which will be held at the Italian Community Center, 631 E. Chicago St., on Thursday, June 12 and Friday, June 13.

Funds raised at the event will support the delivery of SHARP’s foundational literacy program to nearly 7,000 elementary school students in 34 of Milwaukee’s most at-risk schools, and will also support initiatives of the Milwaukee World Festival Inc., through the Summerfest Foundation, which produces Summerfest, hosts cultural events and provides entertainment and educational opportunities for free or at a low cost at Henry Maier Festival Park.

Registration is now open on the Kids Run to Read site.