The 2nd Annual Rick’s “Be Bad” Paint Lab Color Run is a vibrant, community-driven fundraising event that brings families together in support of creative education and youth opportunity. This colorful, family-friendly walk/run honors Rick’s legacy of joy, creativity, and fearless self-expression while raising critical funds for programs that serve children and teens throughout our community.

Because of the success of last year’s Color Run, we were able to sponsor 20 children through the Be Bad Paint Lab program and raise the funds needed to rename and dedicate our Paint Splatter Room in Rick’s honor. In addition, we provided scholarships for children in foster care, youth from low- to moderate-income families, and disadvantaged youth, ensuring access to creative programming for those who needed it most. We also hosted five free community story time events, expanding access to early literacy opportunities for families at no cost.

This year, our goal is to triple or even quadruple our impact. Funds raised from the Color Run will directly support STEAM education, summer camps, early literacy initiatives, and teen job training programs at This n’ That Creative Studio. This includes hands-on STEAM and sewing learning, affordable and scholarship-based summer camps, free story time events that promote early literacy, and meaningful job training opportunities that help teens build confidence, responsibility, and real-world skills.

Beyond the run, the event features color station splash zones, music, food trucks, local vendors, raffles, and creative activities for all ages. Every sponsorship and donation helps remove financial barriers for families and ensures children and teens have access to safe, enriching, and creative learning experiences.

By supporting the 2nd Annual Rick’s “Be Bad” Paint Lab Color Run, donors are investing in creativity, literacy, workforce readiness, and brighter futures for youth in our community.