Foxwall EMS, Aspinwall VFD fundraiser will conquer Center Avenue, one of region's steepest hills

Foxwall EMS and Aspinwall Volunteer Fire Department are encouraging people to Run for the Hill of It.

The new fundraiser to benefit both groups will celebrate its inaugural race on Sunday, April 24.

“This is the kind of event that we have thought about for a long time,” said Rob Tenenini, a Foxwall board member.

Foxwall Chief Tony Cuda called it “a great opportunity for local residents to get out of the house for spring and participate in a community activity.”

The one-mile competitive race and family fun walk starts at 9 a.m. and will see participants conquering Center Avenue in Aspinwall, one of the steepest hills in the Pittsburgh region.

The cost is $35 for runners, $30 for walkers and $75 for families. Fees include a race T-shirt for all, while supplies last, and a timed bib chip for runners.

Children ages 2 and younger can participate for free.

Registration is suggested and is available at runsignup.com.

Runners and walkers will start at the Aspinwall VFD station on First Street and make their way to the second station at the top of the hill.

There is a modified course for walkers who aren’t as eager to tackle Center Avenue.

Both paths lead to Fireman’s Memorial Park off Ninth Street, where a family-centric celebration will commence.

Included in the ticket cost are complimentary bites/drinks from food and coffee trucks, a balloon artist, a bounce house and a DJ.

“The party is a good chance for people to interact with fire volunteers and EMS personnel and to get to know their first responders,” said Foxwall board member David Borland, who serves on Aspinwall Borough Council.

Borland said proceeds will help daily operations for both groups, but the event is aimed at raising awareness of local first responders and the burden of equipment costs, technology and safety training.

“We like to remind people we’re a nonprofit,” Borland said. “People don’t understand how we operate, and any chance we get to remind them that we aren’t a tax-based service is helpful. We have to find the funds and generate revenue to operate.”

Foxwall is the primary responder for Fox Chapel and Aspinwall. Situated at 749 Hemlock Hollow Road in Fox Chapel, the group answered 1,500 calls last year.

There are 54 members, about half of whom are volunteers.

Aspinwall VFD firefighters respond to about 560 calls a year with 15 active members. The department recently announced plans to merge with Sharpsburg VFD to boost manpower and share resources.

Cuda is hoping the fundraiser becomes an annual event and that it’s something people look forward to.

“We’re appreciative of events like this that help provide better service,” Tenenini said. “Every donation definitely is noticed.”