Isle of Palms Connector Run and Walk for the Child

The Isle of Palms Connector Run and Walk for the Child is held on the first Saturday in October on the South Carolina coast. The race uses the IOP Connector between Isle of Palms and Mount Pleasant. It includes a 10K, 5K, and Family Fun Run, attracting serious runners, casual walkers, teams, families, and participants of various ages and experience levels. The event supports Lowcountry children, directing all funds to local organizations focused on child abuse prevention and aiding recovery for abuse survivors. The 5K and 10K begin on Isle of Palms, cross the connector to Mount Pleasant, and return to the island. The course offers views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway, creeks, marsh, and waterfowl. Following the race, a family festival takes place, featuring live music, a kids' area, vendor exhibits, cash prizes, awards, and free beer for adults 21 and older. For over thirty years, the event has contributed more than $1.386 million to local nonprofits, such as Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center, Windwood Farm & Family Services, and HALOS.