2 events in Crofton, Maryland

Hello Friends!

We’re Kirk and Leslie Shadrick, Benjamin’s parents, and we’re truly grateful you’re here.

Benjamin Mario Shadrick is our son, and his life is the reason we serve.

Though Ben's life on earth was brief, his story changed us. It deepened our faith, stretched our hearts, and made us see vulnerable children in a way we never had before. And in that place; through prayer, tears, and a lot of listening, we believe the Lord gave us a clear calling: to build an orphanage for Him.

We call it Casa Benjamin; a Christ-centered home in Zacatlán, Puebla, Mexico for children with special needs who are medically fragile and facing life-limiting illness. Children who need hospice-level care. Children who deserve to be held, comforted, protected, and loved consistently.

This is about helping create a home where the most vulnerable children can receive the kind of care every human being should be able to count on:

• Gentle, attentive caregivers

• Clean, safe living spaces

• Nourishment and daily support

• Meaningful engagement and therapy support

• Emotional and spiritual care

And here’s something we hold close: many of us may never meet these children face-to-face. We may never know their names or hear their stories firsthand. But what we do together, one step at a time, can still change the course of their lives. Your effort, your presence, and your generosity help make real care possible.

If you’re running, walking, volunteering, sponsoring, donating, or simply sharing this with a friend, thank you. Your presence matters more than you know.

We raise money from our Race to fund charitable efforts right here in our area, so this really is a neighborhood event. You run, have fun and help make your community a better place!

For the 10K: It is certified, for the serious runners. We plan to have course monitors to direct you to the turns from the Parkway. If you’re not familiar with the route, it is on our website.

For the 5K: The race start will begin immediately after the 10K begins. As before, the race route is only on the Parkway, measuring about 3.3 miles.