Puyallup startup throws virtual 5K for local businesses struggling in COVID pandemic
A new nonprofit for Puyallup businesses is hosting a virtual 5K to support local entrepreneurs in a pursuit to keep small businesses afloat during the coronavirus pandemic and beyond.
“We are Puyallup” started in mid-March with a handful of Puyallup business owners, a $5,000 check and a hope to bring the community together in a time when businesses are struggling.
“Not everyone can buy hundreds of $100 gift cards, but if we have thousands of people doing $2 or $4, buying a sandwich or a soda pop, that’s a huge difference,” co-creator Colt Fairley with Washington’s Real Estate Team said in a Zoom call kicking off the nonprofit.
The organization has been promoting downtown businesses through video exclusives. Any business is welcome to join the nonprofit with no membership fees. It also has been providing owners with plywood to board up windows, signage, free websites and covered labor cost.
“The best thing to do when you are feeling helpless is to give back,” Fairley said.
Now that Pierce County has moved into Phase 2 of Gov. Jay Inslee’s four-phased plan to reopen society, their primary goal is to help businesses get what they need to reopen and bring in customers.
“We are Puyallup” isn’t caught up in politics or bureaucracy, Fairley said.
When a business’ storefront window was smashed in late May, “We are Puyallup” provided the funds for new panes within hours, he said. Victoria Delango’s Consignment by Victoria on 124 S. Meridian posted on the Facebook page at 5:30 a.m. that she needed help. By 8 a.m., the group had called a local contractor to set up an appointment.
The nonprofit has pulled in $15,000 in donations, labor and gifts, Fairley said. “We are Puyallup” looks to continue its small-business efforts beyond the pandemic.
5K
Anyone can sign up for the 5K.
Fairley told The Puyallup Herald participants can walk, run, cycle, skateboard or rollerblade June 12 to 15. The virtual 5k requires a sign-up and an app to record the race. When the 3.10 miles are over, participants can screenshot their time and send it to the organization.
First, second and third place winners will receive a prize.
Registering for the virtual 5K is $25, which will be given to local businesses. Fairley estimates about 100 participants by June 15.
“We are Puyallup” will distribute the funds to businesses as needed.
