The Dawson County Kiwanis Club is encouraging the community to hit the streets for fun and fitness in the group’s annual road races.

Now in its seventh year, the club’s 5K and 10K races begin at 8 a.m. May 7 at City Hall in Dawsonville.

“The race should be very exciting,” said organizer Joey Homans. “It’s unique because this year we’re encouraging as many people as we can to make this their first 5K.”

Registration is available online at www.active.com and on race day beginning at 7:30 a.m. The costs to participate are: $15 for the 5K and $20 for the 10K, or $20 for the 5K and $25 for the 10K on race day.

The 10K run is a qualifier for next year’s Peachtree Road Race.

Proceeds from the race benefit the various children’s programs the Kiwanis Club supports, including the Rainbow Children’s Home in Dahlonega.

“We’re trying to help where there have been government budget cuts. They had some grants that are just no longer there,” Homans said.

The races start at the Dawsonville Municipal Complex.

Deputies will control traffic along the race route, but roadways will not be closed.

Organizers urge motorists to avoid Allen Street, Perimeter Road and Hwy. 9 north to Hwy. 136 until about 10 a.m.

Homans said previous races have brought out as many as 100 runners.

“We’re starting to get established with the running community,” he said. “We’ve gotten very positive response to being a challenging race.”

Awards will be given for first, second and third place in each age group.

For more information, go to active.com and search for Dawson County Kiwanis 5K and 10K races.