Shoes for Kids Mission Statement:  To provide the foundation – shoes – to children of all ages so that they can enjoy the freedom, the sense of accomplishment and the physical & mental wellbeing that comes from the sport of running.

Since 2018, the Dick Beardsley Races has been proud to support the children of Detroit Lakes with its Shoes for Kids Project!   We have donated over 500 pairs of shoes to kids in need, and we are looking to continue that tradition for many years to come!

It's very easy for us to take things like shoes for granted, but the reality is that many students in our community don't have the luxury of something as simple as a new pair of shoes.  In some schools, the percentage is as much as 50%. 

As walkers and runners who participate in race events, we know how important shoes are.  We believe that no child should have to "sit out" of gym or extra-curricular sports because he or she doesn't have a pair of shoes!  It's also important for a child's self-esteem!  Remember the first day of school when you were a kid?  You had those bright new shoes and it was great!  We believe every kid should have that same proud feeling. 

When you register for one of the events of the Dick Beardsley Races, you have the option to donate to Shoes for Kids, and we'd be grateful if you could.  We need to keep kids running strong for years to come! 

Want to get involved? Want to buy a pair of shoes for a child in need? For only $30, you can help a child feel confident, comfortable, and encourage lifelong health and wellness by 'buying' a pair of shoes! Of course, we will accept any denomination of donation ~ 100% of the net proceeds will go to the Shoes for Kids campaign!