Runners are typically highly self-motivated individuals. In this particular instance, SWAN 4 Kids is providing a bit of external motivation.

"We're helping kids of all ages who have gone through trauma, kids who have one or the other parent incarcerated," said Brittany Torres, the director of development for Scaling Walls a Note at a Time (SWAN) Lancaster. "We're doing what we can do to help the kids. But we're not just giving a helping hand to these kids; we're helping to shape their future."

The charitable arm of HARTZ Physical Therapy stages an annual fundraiser called "Fall Blast" for local charities, and this year the organization has chosen SWAN Lancaster as its beneficiary.

The 23rd annual Fall Blast will be conducted at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Warwick School District's John R. Bonfield Elementary School, 101 N. Oak St., Lititz. The Fall Blast will include a 5K run/walk and a kids' color run.

"HARTZ Physical Therapy operates multiple locations throughout Lancaster County, including one near us," said Torres. "They heard about what we're doing. They have really good events; good people show up and they support different nonprofits. It's a family-friendly event for everyone."

Breakfast will be served that morning, and goodie bags will be distributed to participating adults and children. Prizes will be earned by the top finishers, and awards will be given out in a number of different age categories.

Runners can register for the 5K at http://www.hartzpt.com/community/fall-blast-5k or at the race the day of the event.

"There are different opportunities, and people can get teams together," said Torres, a resident of Ephrata. "It's going to be super fun. We're really creating a community event where people can come together. Lititz is just a great town. It's just a great environment in general."

According to SWAN, there are more than 3,000 kids in Lancaster who have at least one incarcerated parent.

"The goal is to raise as much money as possible," said Torres, "because every single dollar will go to help our kids."

SWAN Lancaster conducts its largest fundraiser, Summer Celebration, in July, and the music-based nonprofit also holds an annual golf outing to raise funds. In addition, SWAN Lancaster is funded through grants, monthly donations, sponsorships and partnerships.

"There are incredible nonprofits throughout Lancaster County," said Torres. "So, getting people to know what you do is huge. The work SWAN is doing is not temporary. We stick with these kids, and we build relationships with them."

SWAN Lancaster, which was founded in 2011, serves children through private and group music lessons, mental health counseling and mentoring.

"Our heart and goal is to be able to serve every school in Lancaster County," said Torres. "We have had kids who have shared their stories, the why and how their lives have been changed. Some of our kids have performed in the community, and they're seeing there's more than the places they live."

For additional information, go to http://www.swan4kids.org.