Photo credit: Matt Waller

What happened: More than 380 runners took to the streets on Saturday, Sept. 19, for the fifth annual Attic Superhero Run to raise awareness of foster care and adoption across West Texas. Hosted by One Accord for Kids, the event celebrates foster and adoptive families, CASA volunteers, caseworkers, and others who work with children in the foster care system, while encouraging more West Texans to get involved.

Runners competed in 1K, 5K, and 10K races beginning at First Baptist Church and continuing through Old Midland. Superhero costumes filled the course as participants were encouraged to “cape up, lace up and show up.” This year, runners also received finisher medals for the first time.

The big picture: The Superhero Run brought several organizations involved in the West Texas child welfare system together in one place. CASA of West Texas, the Midland County Child Welfare Board, and High Sky Children’s Ranch were represented, giving families a chance to learn more about their work and ways to support local children.

Midland’s top stories. One quick email. Free, every Friday.
Get Midland Wrapped, our free weekly email for busy Midland residents. Each Friday, we break down the week’s most important local stories — what happened, why it matters, and what to watch next — so you can stay informed without the noise.

Local running groups also helped support the event, including 432 Run Crew, Soul Sisters Running Club and Midland Athletic Company.

The annual event highlights the continued need for foster and adoptive families in West Texas.

“When we talk about the heroes of foster care, we’re talking about ordinary people throughout West Texas who have made the decision to step into the lives of children and families when they need someone most,” One Accord for Kids Executive Director Shauna Todd said. “This run gives us the opportunity to celebrate those people and, hopefully, inspire someone else to ask, ‘What role could I play?’”

Go deeper: One Accord for Kids’ stated vision is to have a loving, local family for every child in West Texas. Todd said that doesn’t necessarily mean everyone who wants to help has to become a foster or adoptive parent.

“Whether someone opens their home, volunteers, supports an organization or simply helps spread the word, there is a way for everyone to be part of this work,” Todd said.

West Texans interested in becoming foster parents can learn more at fosterwesttexaskids.com, while information about adoption is available at adoptwesttexaskids.com. More information about One Accord for Kids and the Attic Resource Center is available at oneaccordtx.org.