WHEELING — The Augusta Levy Learning Center has been adding to its Spectrum of Color 5K Fun Run for the last couple of years in order to create an even better experience for those who participate. To celebrate the center’s 20th anniversary, Augusta Levy isn’t stopping that evolution.

On top of the inclusive 5K run, race day will feature an anniversary celebration that will include tons of features and fun to entertain leading up to the run.

The celebration, scheduled for July 15 at Heritage Port, is scheduled from 3-5 p.m., with the run, also starting at Heritage Port, kicking off at 5 p.m.

Sunday’s event is part of a year-long party the center wants to put on to honor a major milestone, said Taylor Rys, Augusta Levy’s development and marketing specialist.

“We’re trying to do a little birthday surprise each month,” she said. So every event that we have, we’re also trying to incorporate that and make it something just a little more special than what we typically do, since it is the 20 year anniversary.”

The center decided last year that, instead of holding a competitive race, it would transform into an inclusive fun run, something that would allow people of all ability levels, including those who use Augusta Levy’s services to participate.

Participants in the fun run will run or walk through the 5K course, which will include stations where they’ll be covered in dry tempera paint powder, as well as sensory stations with foam and bubbles. Runners and walkers can enjoy the paint, foam and bubbles or, if they’re not comfortable, can pass over it.

Everyone who completes the course will receive a medal. That’s something Rys said those who use Augusta Levy’s services really appreciate.

“This is an opportunity for them to experience that when those opportunities are few and far between for them,” she said. “That’s a great thing. They get so excited, and they just feel so proud. It’s very heartwarming.”

The celebration beforehand will offer a wide array of activities – inflatables from Tripp’s Fun Zone, popsicles from Ziegenfelder, cupcakes and popcorn, along with music, face painting and balloon animals. Spike, the Wheeling Nailers mascot, will make an appearance, as will Sheba the therapy dog.

Proceeds from the fun run will benefit the Shawn Ramsay Autism Scholarship. Ramsay was a dedicated wife and mother of two children, one who is on the autism spectrum. She also was a BoardCertified Behavior Analyst who devoted her life to this field, and helping children and families on the spectrum. The scholarship will help those enrolled at Augusta Levy cover the cost of services.

Packet pick-up will be available as early as noon on race day at Heritage Port. To register, go to https://runsignup.com/Race/WV/Wheeling/TheSpectrumOfColor5KFunRun.