The Eastmark Parkway Color Run (“EPCR”) is a community-based fun run that doubles as a major fundraiser for several local schools and other youth-oriented non-profit organizations. The EPCR came to be when the volunteer parent organizations for two neighborhood schools got together, wanting to create something that would help foster more of a combined community feel and also help raise funds for their schools. That first event, which took place in January 2016, raised just over $11,000. With approval and praises from the City of Mesa, sponsors, registered runners and their families’ support, the EPCR grew to raise just over $30,000 in 2019. Those funds went to crucial school programs, specialized learning environments and teacher funds for our participating schools.