Greenport graduate Michael Brown may have struggled with cerebral palsy his entire life, but he refused to let it stop him from pursuing his dreams, enrolling in Suffolk County Community College shortly after high school.
After he was killed in a horrific accident on his way to class in 2010 at just 21 years old, his family wants to make sure it is his drive and determination that he is remembered by.
They formed a scholarship fund for special needs college-bound students in Greenport in Michael’s name after his death, and last year, they organized a 5K that raised $5,000 toward the Michael Brown Memorial Scholarship Fund. Eight scholarships and one grant were awarded to special needs students in Greenport as a result.
“Education was so important to [Michael],” his sister Karre Brown wrote in an announcement about this year’s race.
Last year’s race was such a success that it raised five times the amount than the community fish and chicken fry fundraisers held in years past, which raised enough each year for two $500 scholarships.
This year’s Miles for Mike 5K walk/run will be held at Greenport High School on Saturday, May 14 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. In addition to the race, there will be live performances, a raffle for a flat screen television and a concession stand serving food prepared by Dia Wilson.
Veleda Spellman from Positive Queens will also be attending as a guest speaker.
Proceeds from the event will go toward the Michael Brown Memorial Scholarship Fund.
Participants can register for the race, purchase raffle tickets or make a donation to the scholarship fund online here.
