Another big success in year two
From start to finish, the 2024 edition of Pell City Rotary Jingle Bell Run 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk had it all.
By the numbers, over 120runners and walkers participated in this second edition of the run, clearing the way for more than $50,000 raised for St. Clair Sheriff’s Boys Ranch and other charities in the community.
Santa was there, cheering on the runners, having his picture made with kids of all ages and managing to delight the crowd by giving a hefty lift to the spirit of the season.
Miss Leeds Area 2025 Samantha Hennings performed the National Anthem to rousing cheers, and more than a few spirited runners donned holiday attire for the festivities.
The Dec. 14 run at Lakeside Park was as Pell City Rotarians intended – a fun communitywide event for the entire family. It drew runners from all over the region and state on a 5K route that took them on scenic trails through the park and along the shoreline of Logan Martin Lake.
“We had a tremendous amount of support from the community this year. For our Club, this
event is an opportunity for us to make an impact with some very worthy causes like the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Boys Ranch. Our Jingle Bell Run is about more than running, it’s about making a difference. Thank you to all who ran, donated and served.”
Citing the $50,000 raised, Furgerson added, “We could have never done that without the generosity and involvement of our community. We can’t wait to do it again next year!”
Run Chairman Bill Ellison echoed the notion that it all comes back to service. “Rotary saw a need in the community for an event of this magnitude that the whole family could enjoy. But more important, it saw the need for funds to build a home and help with other renovations to reopen the Boys Ranch this past year.”
He lauded the efforts of sponsors who made the fundraiser possible, the volunteers and Rotarians who helped with every aspect of the event along the way and to the community and runners who supported it.
“It really does take all of us working together to make our community a better place. All involved in the Jingle Bell Run are testament to that.”
