One of Fayetteville’s most anticipated annual events is quickly approaching as the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation’s Step Up 4 Health and Wellness Expo returns to Methodist University on April 12.

Featuring a 4K and one-mile walk – plus dozens of family friendly activities – the event (other than the registration fee for the race/walk) is free and open to the public. With more than 1,000 guests last year, the event raises donations for Cape Fear Valley Health Friends of Cancer Center, Children’s Services, the Community Alternatives Program, Cumberland County Medication Access Program, and Heart Care.

As with previous years, the races will be held throughout MU’s sprawling 600-acre campus while Duggins Soccer Stadium will house the Wellness Expo, which will include information booths, food trucks, kids’ area, music, giveaways and sponsor tables. Registration begins at 9 a.m., opening ceremonies are at 9:30 a.m., and the walks and Expo begin at 10 a.m.

“This is a chance for everybody in the community to get together, go over to Methodist University, and we have our service lines/departments out there to provide resources, health screenings… and it’s free,” said Ashley Lee, community engagement and development coordinator with the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation in a press release. “We’re so thankful to Methodist University for letting us set up there, they are a great partner, and we all have such a great time for these great causes. Donations from this event go straight to health services that directly impact the lives of patients in our community.”

There is still time to register for the event. All registered participants receive a t-shirt.