Get colorful with Color Me Rad

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama (RMHCA) will host its annual Color Me Rad 5K run and fundraiser at Hoover Metropolitan Stadium on Sat., March 19.

Throughout the event, volunteers cover the runners from head to toe in gel, liquid and powdered paints of pink, yellow, green, blue and violet. Runners also get free stuff, including t-shirts, a temporary tattoo and a Goo Guard phone case.

The Color Me Rad 5Ks are held as fundraisers around the United States and are loosely based on the Hindu Festival of Colors, known as Holi.

The event benefits the RMHCA, which is located near UAB and cares for about 40 families each night, providing them with a home away from home while their children receive medical treatment in Birmingham, as well as home-cooked meals, family activities and emotional support from volunteers, staff and other guests.

This is the fourth year that the RMHCA has partnered with Color Me Rad, according to Stephanie Langford, marketing and communications director. The RMHCA raised about $34,000 in the first three years, Langford said.

There are no health risks from the paint used at the race, according to organizers, who say it is non-toxic and gluten-free.

The event is open to all ages, but children ages eight and up must register as adults, and all minors must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.

Those interested in volunteering at packet pick-up or on race day should contact alma.moore@rmhca.org. 

To register for Color Me Rad, go to colormerad.com/location/birmingham/#103.