Community support led to a record year of sales and fundraising last week as part of the special edition Post-Journal and OBSERVERs that were sold at Tim Hortons and in communities on Wednesday.

Led by volunteers in the north and south county, $4,621.43 was raised in the sale of newspapers. “We’re in awe of the support that residents continue to offer to the Laurel Run through our special edition sale,” said John D’Agostino, editor of The Post-Journal and OBSERVER. “This is a testament to the community’s generosity and its love for Laurel Hotelling and her family.”

Funds raised will go toward Filling the Gap, Inc., a not-for-profit organization designated as 501(c)(3), based in Jamestown. This organization is dedicated to promoting and enhancing services for low-income, distressed, and underprivileged residents of Chautauqua County, with a particular emphasis on individuals with disabilities. Their efforts are concentrated in four key areas of focus, aimed at fostering support and development within the community.

The 29th annual Laurel Memorial Run will be held July 18 and 19. The event features a 5K run/walk; an 8K run; a 1K Fun Walk; children’s runs; and Laurel’s Lap, designated for anyone with a disability.

Laurel Hotelling was a beloved member of the Silver Creek community who lived an impactful life of 54 years with Down’s Syndrome. The Laurel Memorial Run raises money for the Resource Center, while also raising awareness and visibility for those of all abilities.