Kidville The Woodlands likes to keep kids moving for a cause

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- At Kidville in The Woodlands, Karen Roberts, Owner, puts her years of teaching skills to use getting kids passionate about music, the arts, dance and movement. Roberts will bring the high energy and friendly features of the Kidville gym to Northshore Park on November 23 as part of an emphasis on kids at the 11th-annual Step Out Walk To Stop Diabetes in The Woodlands.

Hosted in cities all over the nation, the walk is the American Diabetes Associations' main event to raise awareness and funds for diabetes research, education, advocacy and local programs. Registration for The Woodlands-based non-competitive 3K walk and 5K run opens at 7:30 a.m. Both events are free to the public, with individuals and teams earning money through donation pledges.

Opening ceremonies kick off at 8:30 a.m. with long-time emcee Bob Crowley, DJ and cheer groups, warmups with Villa Sport and a "red strider" speaker who will give a testimonial about life with diabetes. Runners will take off for the lush neighborhoods surrounding Northshore park at 9 a.m., with the walkers following stride at 9:05 a.m. Pets and kids are welcome.

"The Woodlands has such a strong volunteer and community base, they can support their own walk," said Danielle Soria-Orozco, manager of special events at the American Diabetes Association of Houston and The Woodlands. "It's the only area outside Houston that has its own." Sponsored by the Greater Houston Physicians Medical Association, among others, Montgomery County is a valued supporter of the Step Out Walk To Stop Diabetes.

Along with the walk/run, the event turns a spotlight on good habits with its Health and Fitness Festival, open from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Vendors from local companies will be on hand to bolster the ADA's recommendations for healthy living. Soria-Orozco says there is a special emphasis this year on kids with Type 1 diabetes. Over 150 area diabetic children, many from Montgomery County, were able to attend Camp Rainbow in Pinehurst based on donations last year. An extensive play area will be highlighted this year, with fitness activities and crafts designed to motivate kids, including the Kidville Play Zone.

"We love fitness and helping kids find ways to use those muscles, rather than sitting in front of the TV and playing video games," Roberts said. "Also, we have juvenile diabetes in my family and finding a cure is very important to me."

A Nutriman superhero character will provide information on good nutrition, alongside familiar area mascots in character to add to the festive atmosphere.

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