Run, walk, eat and have fun are all on the list for the Mid-County community on Saturday.

The United Way of Mid & South Jefferson County and BASF Total Petrochemicals, LLC are combining forces this year for one great campaign kick-off event with a Family Fun Day and 10^th Live United Fun Run at 8 a.m. Sept. 21 at Port Neches Park.

The two events are being merged together for the first time this year.

Janie Johnson, CEO of United Way of Mid & South Jefferson County, said she is excited to be bringing back the fun run after skipping last year due to Hurricane Harvey. She said the run is for fun and serious runners, adding anyone can participate.

“Every year we have people working really hard to kick off this 5K. For some of them it’s their first time,” she said.

This year’s 5K begina with a performance by the Nederland High School Drum Line. Johnson is excited to have the drum line performing and bringing their energy to the event.

In addition to the 5K, the event features food and activities such as washers, photo booths, face painting and games. Music will also be provided.

Johnson said as a team they wanted to push it to be special for the 10^th anniversary.

“We are excited to make it more inclusive, not just for the walkers or runners but those who want to come out and just enjoy a beautiful morning in the park,” she said. “It’s great to be partnering with BASF Total again to bring a day of fun, be a helping hand to the community and kick off our campaign for next year.”

United Way is an organization that focuses on the individual needs in the community and led entirely by volunteers. Johnson said the organization focuses on supporting the community where needed.

“Every program that we support or initiative we start focuses on education, financial stability or health,” she said. “During the campaign we are raising the funds for next year that will go back into the community. The dollars that are spent here stay here.”

United Way Mid & South Jefferson County supports 23 organizations and 38 programs in the area, bringing around 1.5 million in funds to the community.

Johnson said she is thankful for the support of BASF Total and wouldn’t be able to make the event a success without their partnership.

Carol Hebert, manager of community and government affairs for BASF Total Petrochemicals, said they have been sponsoring the 5K since it started.

“We wanted to sponsor something health related and getting the community involved,” she said. “We’re just excited. We usually have 40 or more employees that come out, participate and volunteer. It’s going to be a great day to raise money for United Way, raise awareness and recognize the efforts they make for the community.”

Johnson and Hebert both said they want the public to join the fun, cheer on people who are running or walking and truly make it a community event.

The 5K Run/Walk is $25 and the kids 1K run is $15 to register. Registration ends 4 p.m. Thursday.

For more information or to sign up for the run, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/TX/PortNeches/UnitedLive5K.