Actor Josh Duhamel took under his wing the youth of Santa Monica (and some older participants), leading an emergency two-mile run on the Santa Monica Beach, to raise money for the victims of Haiti.
In conjunction with the American Red Cross of Santa Monica, the fundraiser “Youth Run for Haitian Earthquake Relief” was held Saturday morning. Dozens of children waited in long lines to register and donate the $10 for their participation. The color red, which they were required to wear as well, was meant to express support for the much help that is still needed in Haiti.
The run began at the Santa Monica Pier and after just under an hour, came full circle to return to the iconic setting of its starting place. At the end Duhamel and his personal trainer Don Brooks of Don-A-Matrix, were high-fiving the kids and thanking all participants endlessly for their support.
“There are no prizes, no winner or losers — just the sheer joy of running and knowing that you’re also helping vital Red Cross earthquake relief efforts in Haiti,” said Duhamel.
After the ongoing hard rain this week, the fundraiser was fortunate to be bathed in the first sunny morning. Duhamel�s initiative brought the youth of Santa Monica to unite and Run for Haiti.
Duhamel has a long history of promoting physical health and humanitarian movement and partnered in the past with the American Red Cross.
Many of the youth participants and their parents said it was an honor to be a part of history and this movement. Even children too young to walk, wore red and were carried by their parents for a jog in the stroller.
The Los Angeles Firefighters also participated by collecting money in their firefighter boots. The money donated and the enthusiasm shown, demonstrated that Santa Monica has the power and initiative to come together with to support a good cause.
MARISSA BOJIUC
Mirror Contributing Writermarissa@smmirror.com
