Eleven years ago, S.P.A.’s (formally S.C.A.T.) staff and board members decided they wanted to offer an event to increase the awareness of our prevention efforts and double as a fundraiser for our youth prevention programs. An event that could be open to our youth, adults, and families of all ages – thus the Hot Cocoa Run! After consulting with several race event experts, we were informed that we could not call it a “Hot Chocolate Run” because that name was part of a franchise. So evolved our “Hot Cocoa Run”.

We reached out to Dave’s Running Shop, where we met, and continue to work with to this day, our mentor, guide, and go to person to move us through the logistics of sponsoring a run. Eric had the patience of a saint as we asked questions upon questions and he led us through each step of the planning and implementing process. The planning process involved deciding when and where to host the event, how long the run would be, getting permission and support from the City and Township, how to market it, how to set up registration, how to recognize the winners, t-shirts, beverages, snacks, sponsors, many volunteers to man all the stations, and the list went on. We partnered with and continue to partner with Olander to offer races starting and ending at the Nederhouser building. Olander has been the perfect site for our Hot Cocoa Run. From kitchen facilities for us to make hot cocoa and set up snacks to inside bathroom facilities to a fireplace providing a warm and cozy environment for the participants and their supporters/families. On Feb. 20, 2016, S.C.A.T. successfully sponsored their first annual Hot Cocoa Run!

Over the years, the race has grown from over 150 participants that first year and have seen the event grow to over 400 walkers/runners last year in 2025. In addition, we added a challenge for each school to try to get the “Frozen Toes” Award. The school with the most participants carries home the plaque for a year. Throughout this process, we have been fortunate to partner with many community members that help make Hot Cocoa great. Bob Wambold and Vince Croci have been the encouraging voices to bring the walkers/runners in as they cross under the archway at the finish line. Five Lakes Church has helped to take over the hot cocoa preparation and distribution. Many other community businesses or community organizations have volunteered or donated snacks and/or were sponsors at various levels. We are so grateful for everyone’s help and support.

We hope you can join us as a walker, runner, volunteer or cheerleader for your loved ones! Of course, the weather can be cold but we look forward to another year of getting outside, seeing past runners again, making new friends, and to celebrate with a glass of Hot Cocoa at the end.

Register to participate at tinyurl.com/SPAHotCocoa2026
Register to volunteer by emailing prevention@sylvaniaschools.org.