Alabama Teen's First 5K Raises Funds for Free Clinic

When Reed Flores blew the horn to start his first-ever charity race, he looked out at a sea of runners who showed up to support healthcare for their neighbors in need. The Cullman High School senior felt overwhelmed with gratitude.

The inaugural Run for Good 5K took place on Saturday, June 27 in Cullman, Alabama, with every dollar raised going to the Good Samaritan Health Clinic. Reed's father, Dr. Flores, runs Flores Eyecare, which served as the presenting sponsor.

Reed's dream of working in medicine sparked the entire event. He and his dad brainstormed ways to make a real impact, and when they approached Good Samaritan with the fundraiser idea, the clinic immediately said yes.

The response exceeded everyone's expectations. Experienced runners called it one of the best organized races they'd ever joined, and many said they'd definitely return next year.

"I can't thank Reed and Dr. Flores enough for all the time they have devoted to this event over the last several weeks," said Jolanda Hutson, Good Samaritan's Executive Director. She called the partnership amazing and hopes it continues for years to come.

Reed's favorite moment wasn't crossing the finish line or seeing the final fundraising total. It was his mom's huge hug and hearing her say she was proud of him.

The Ripple Effect

The funds will provide healthcare access to uninsured adults in Cullman County who otherwise go without care. Good Samaritan operates as a primary care clinic offering everything from doctor visits and medications to mental health counseling, eye exams, dental extractions, and hearing evaluations.

The clinic is preparing for a major milestone. Construction on their new building on Veterans Drive should finish by mid-July, with operations moving in August.

For Reed, the race was just the beginning. He and his dad plan to make this an annual tradition that keeps serving their community's most vulnerable residents.

One community, one race, and countless lives touched by compassion in action.