The generosity of brewers, attendees and partners benefit Runnin’ for Rhett. Runnin’ for Rhett owns the Capitol Beer Fest, and 100% of the event proceeds directly fund our Youth Fitness Program allowing thousands of children each year to participate and even gifting new running shoes to those in need.
Rhett Seevers was born on February 7, 1997. His proud parents, Beth and Randy Seevers brought home their bundle of joy to join their family of four. At four months, they were devastated by the news that their little boy had severe cerebral palsy and would face a life full of challenges. They dove in headfirst and learned all they could about his disabilities. On March 13th, 2004, after 7 years of full-time care, love and devotion, Rhett passed away at home unexpectedly with his family by his side.
In the spring of 2005, as the anniversary of Rhett’s death approached, a friend of Beth’s introduced her to running. She learned of the 1st annual Shamrock’n ½ marathon. It was ironically being held on the first anniversary of Rhett’s passing. Completing the run was such an inspiration to Beth. The following year, she asked that her friends and family join her. Join her they did; 35 additional friends and family donned the first baby blue running shirts that year. In the spring of 2007, with the addition of an organized training group, over 125 people participated in the race.
On December 7, 2007, Runnin’ for Rhett Non-Profit was founded. The organization has now inspired 1000’s of youth and adults in the Sacramento area.
In Rhett’s short life, he inspired many people with his infectious smile and will to live, but with his challenges, he could not walk, run or jump – no matter how hard he tried. After Rhett’s death, Beth and Randy dedicated their memory of Rhett to utilizing FITNESS and MOVING to help others – do what Rhett wanted to do so badly but couldn’t.
Runnin’ for Rhett’s mission is to LET RHETT’S STORY INSPIRE those who feel defeated, UPLIFT those who feel down and ENCOURAGE ALL TO take that first step, like Beth did in the spring of 2005, and MOVE INTO LIFE.
Runnin’ for Rhett Youth Fitness Program
The Runnin’ for Rhett Youth Fitness Program is designed to combat childhood obesity in at-risk youth by educating young people and their families on fitness and nutrition. The program culminates a 5K race in the spring and fall. Runnin’ for Rhett provides this program at NO CHARGE to more than 70 schools in the Sacramento region each spring and fall.
Since the spring of 2010, the Runnin’ for Rhett Youth Fitness Program has raised over $1,265,886, allowing almost 44,528 children to train and participate in a 5K (3.1 mile) race.