Lansing - Residents from across the state gathered for a special cause on Saturday at the Michigan Foster and Adoptive Parent Association's first 5K Run/Walk and Family Day at Potter Park.

With about 80 participants, the proceeds will benefit foster, adoptive and kinship children and families in Michigan.

"Our children should have happy lives and we're about raising money so that can be done," association board President Barbara Ellington said. "We have to do something for these children. We can't leave them on the streets."

The event featured games and prizes for children and offered discounted admission to Potter Park Zoo. Mayor Tony Benavides kicked off the festivities.

Holt resident Jon Freburg, whose brother and sister are both adopted, said he participated to show his support for other foster and adoptive families.

"It's a really good cause and you get good exercise," he said. "It's a good way to help them raise money for their association."

For 33 years, the nonprofit organization has educated foster, adoptive and kinship families through mentoring programs and support groups.

The association, with offices in Holt and Detroit and 80 support groups across the state, holds numerous conferences throughout the year. Proceeds will be used to continue existing programs and add more resources, Ellington said.

Of the more than 5,000 foster and adoptive parents in Michigan, 800 are members of the association. Ellington said she hopes Saturday's event will raise awareness about the group and encourage greater parental involvement.

"We want to recruit parents and show them this could work," she said. "We lose 40 percent of Michigan foster parents each year because of a lack of education."

Benita Fyan, a Twin Lake resident, walked with her grandchildren to show her support. Fyan serves as a representative in her area for the association and said she was pleased with Saturday's turnout.

"I think it's a good start to promote who we are and what we want to do," she said. "It's been very well-attended by staff, family and friends."

Ellington said she hopes to have the event every year and spread the message that it isn't a burden for people to foster or adopt children. Many of the event's participants have adopted children, and Ellington said part of the goal was to recognize those individuals.

"There are so many heroes in our community that have quietly stepped up," she said. "These people have stepped forward and given their lives for their kids."