Events and Education
Parent to Parent Family Support Network of the High Country provides support, education and caring connections for families who have a child with a disability, an emotional or health condition, have a child born prematurely; or are grieving the death of a child.
In order to support the program as well as provide connection and education to family members, providers, and the High Country community, Parent Family Support Network of the High Country hosts multiple events each year. Please join us!
Spooky Duke Race
Join us — either in person or virtually — for the 15th Annual Spooky Duke and help support local families who have children with special needs!
- USATF-Certified 5K and 10K Run
- Fun Walk
- Free Costume March for kids, adults and families
As the High Country continues its recoveryefforts after the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene, local families need your support more than ever.
Date: November 8,2025
Time: Race and Walk begin 9:30 am
Location: Peacock Parking Lot on the campus of Appalachian State University, Boone, NC
Options: Participate on-site or virtually
Register: Click here to register
5K: $25
10K: $30
Virtual: $25
Registration increases by $5 on day of race
Create a team of 15 participants and get your team name added to the raceday t-shirt and participate for only $15 per team member!
All proceeds for this race support local families in the NC High Country who have children with special needs.
Raised in 2024: $30,000
Want to volunteer to help the race? Click here!
View race results and team information from previous races.
Growing Well Conference
The annual Growing Well Conference offers inspiration, education, and connection for those working to support children and youth with special healthcare needs in rural western North Carolina. The conference features a dynamic mix of individual and group presentations, expert panel discussions, and hands-on demonstrations. Sessions will be led by healthcare providers, researchers, government leaders, educators, and individuals with lived experience—offering a wide range of perspectives.
