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2020 500 Festival volunteer registration is open

Posted at 1:37 PM, Jan 08, 2020
and last updated 2020-01-08 13:37:50-05

INDIANAPOLIS — The countdown is on with only 115 days until the One America Mini Marathon.

Organizers say they need 7,000 volunteers to help with the mini-marathon and other events throughout the 500 festival.

"Volunteers really help us make such a tremendous impact not only in Indianapolis in the month of May but all across the state throughout the Spring," Maggie Lamar, digital marketing manager for the 500 Festival, said.

Volunteers make an impact on people like Lisa Herron, who walked in the 5K for the first time last year after undergoing cervical spine surgery.

"When I signed up to do the One America 5K, it was ten days post-op..." Herron said.

Herron says overcoming the challenge was emotional and hopes that as one of the many power walkers that participate, she'll inspire others to sign up.

"It's intimidating for people. Even the thought of just doing a 5k ... my mind said, 'it's just 3.1 miles, or a mini, its just 3.1 miles,'" Herron said. "It's just one step at a time ... run, walk, crawl — just show up."

This year Herron is taking on the half marathon for the first time, which will be lined with volunteers cheering her on.

Wednesday is the last day to register for the 5K, or mini-marathon, for the lowest price. Prices increase at midnight.