Hundreds of children gathered at the Willmar Civic Center on Saturday to learn fun ways to stay healthy and protect the environment.
Christopher Radel, the organizer of the Healthy Earth, Healthy Kids event, said the goal was to create a community event focused on education about healthy living and environmental stewardship for kids and families. Radel worked closely with exhibitors and moderated a panel during the event.
The event, now in its second year, is a collaboration between the League of Women Voters, Kandiyohi County Area Family YMCA, Creation Care Team, the City of Willmar, and Willmar Public Schools, along with support from many local organizations. It aims to promote environmental awareness and healthy habits among young people in the area.
The 2025 event featured nearly 50 exhibitors who engaged with children through various activities. These included a bounce house, giveaways, and the popular YMCA Color Run, where kids run while being showered with colorful chalk.
“One of the main attractions is the fun run. The first 200 kids get free T-shirts with a fun peanut design. They line up and run around the field, where people throw chalk at them as they pass,” Radel explained.
A key giveaway was organized by Willmar Bikes, a local biking group, which distributed more than 100 helmets to children. This was made possible with the help of Rick’s Cycling and donations. Children who received helmets were encouraged to promise to wear them while riding their bikes.
The event was funded by a combination of donations and grants, allowing organizers to provide educational and fun materials for all attendees.
Healthy Earth, Healthy Kids Day has been running for two years but grew out of an event originally organized by the YMCA called Healthy Kids Day, where the Color Run started. When the idea for an environmental day was discussed, organizers decided to combine the two events to reach a wider audience.
