The Alternative Press

WESTFIELD, NJ--Family, friends and supporters of Westfield High School alum Allison Lowenstein took part Saturday in a fun run that raked in well over the goal amount set by organizers. Last month, Lowenstein sustained serious injuries after she was struck by a car. In her honor, friends rallied together and organized a fun run to raise money to help her family with medical bills and other expenses.

“We wanted to show [the family] all the support that’s here in Westfield and the surrounding area for Alli,” said organizer Josie Reinhardt.

The event took place at Tamaques Park from 4 to 7pm. Roughly 150 people came out to show their support with some good old-fashioned fun in the sun. Participants were asked to make a suggested donation of $5 and were handed raffle tickets upon signing in. Prizes up for grabs included gift certificates, gift baskets and t-shirts.

The run started at 5pm, followed by food and prizes. Supporters also had the opportunity to send their good vibes to Lowenstein via video messages and handwritten notes.

“The purpose of this event is to bring people together. [Running] is something that Alli is passionate about and bringing people together is something that Alli is good at. We wanted to do that, too,” explained organizer Rosie Driscoll.

The event was organized by Josie Reinhardt, Mairead O'Boyle, Casey Reimlinger, Daryl Garfinkel, Caraugh Ball, Rose Driscoll, Alex Tarlow, Bridget Grogan, and Marissa Mumford.

If you were not able to attend, you can still make a donation through Sept. 1 by clicking here: http://www.indiegogo.com/funrunforallilow. You may also send a message to Lowenstein and her family or sign the guest book at the following link: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/allilow