Rafael's Race Raises Funds for School Field Trips

It all started when fourth grade student Rafael Martins went on a field trip with to Bladensburg Waterfront Park, where he learned about nature and animal habitats. Though Martins passed away in October 2009, he held this trip, which he took on his last day of school, close to his heart.

While leaving the park with his class, Martins was thrilled by the site of a bald eagle soaring overhead. He said this was the best day of his life, fourth-grade teacher Elizabeth Stewart-Hancock said.

Greenbelt Elementary School still remembers their beloved student. And this year on Oct. 22, the PTA will host Rafael's Race, a 5K/1K run-walk in his honor. The proceeds will go towards .

You can participate in or become a sponsor of Rafael's Race. To be included in early promotional materials, sign up before Oct. 1. You can register online and mail your registration fee and waiver forms, but make sure they're postmarked by Oct. 16.

You can also donate items to be part of the auction and raffle. Right now some of the prizes include four tickets to a Redskins game and a free birthday party at Skate Zone. Please respond by Oct. 1

Your gift is fully tax deductible as allowed by law.

Kirsten Dabelko, kirsten_lacour@hotmail.com, is race coordinator.