Preschoolers walk, run and crawl to raise $23,000 for CHOC

Nearly 200 Irvine preschoolers dashed — and in some cases, toddled — around a track at Turtle Rock Preschool on Wednesday to raise more than $23,000 for Children’s Hospital of Orange County.

The annual Kids’ On The Move-A-Thon was the brainchild of school curriculum director Francesca Chemberlen, who wanted to incorporate philanthropy into education at the campus.

Children 8 weeks to 6 years old participated. Infants and toddlers kicked off the day by riding in buggies around a school track, with older children running later. Children who crossed the finish line took part in a dance party and snacked on shaved ice — all in the company of “CHOCO,” the hospital’s bear mascot.

“The event is a fun way for the children to raise money for charity and also lets them participate in their very own mock 5K race,” event organizer Jordan-Michelle Santos said.

Last year, the event raised $15,000 for CHOC.

—Nicole Knight Shine