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MIFFLIN -- At the Central Juniata Park Pool in Mifflin, the summer sun reflects off the water as usual, but behind the scenes the pool has been fighting an expensive battle to stay open.
Now, with repairs completed and nonprofit status pending, the park is inviting the community to lace up their running shoes for its first Dash and Splash 5K on Aug. 1 -- a fundraiser meant to keep the landmark pool thriving.
"We'd like to make this an annual event," said Shirley Hostler, treasurer for Central Juniata Park. "We want to keep the pool in our community for the kids in the summertime to give them something to do."
The 63-year-old pool has faced a series of costly challenges this season. Major leaks had to be repaired before opening day, a new pump was needed for the wading pool, and routine expenses, such as paint, chemicals, and electricity have already climbed into the thousands only a month into summer. Becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit will help reduce long-term costs, but officials are still waiting on final paperwork from the state.
Despite the financial strain, park officials said the season has been encouraging and the community has stepped forward in meaningful ways.
The Dash and Splash 5K is the pool's first major fundraising event under its new non-profit structure. The race will begin at the pool, cross the walking bridge into Mifflintown, continue to Juniata Elementary School, loop through nearby neighborhoods, circle Juniata High School then return across the river to finish where it started. For those who prefer a shorter option, a one-mile walk will take place on an abbreviated course at the same time. Participants are welcome to run, jog, or walk either route.
Officials said Mifflintown Hose Co, No. 1 will coordinate traffic control and the Juniata Valley Striders will handle race timing.
Awards will be given to the overall male and female finishers, along with the top finishers in each age bracket: 12 and under; 13 to 19; 20 to 29; 30 to 39; 40 to 49; and 50 and over. Gift certificates from local businesses will be awarded. The pool also plans to showcase sponsors on race shirts and promotional materials.
Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. on Aug. 1, with the race beginning at 8:30 a.m. After crossing the finish line, participants are invited to cool off with a jump in the pool or a cold shower.
The cost is $30 for adults, $25 for students, with discounts available for families. Registration forms are available on the pool's Facebook page.
"We're hoping between now and then (race day) for another 25," added Hostler, who said there are currently about 50 runners registered. "For our first time doing -- I was talking to the lady who organized the New Year's Eve race -- she said 50 was a good number. There's another 5K going on that same day, so we've got some competition."
With the high school fall sports teams getting underway, Hostler hopes to see them joining the field of competitors.
Individuals or businesses interested in donating can contact Central Juniata Park Treasurer Shirley Hostler at (717) 436-6371 or walkertwptaxcollector@gmail.com. More details are also available on Facebook.