WILBRAHAM – Michael Margolis of Margolis Orthodontics in Wilbraham is on a mission to bring music to middle schoolers.

On Sept. 29, Margolis Orthodontics will sponsor Margolis Miles for Music, a 5k run/walk to raise money for the music programs at middle schools in Wilbraham, Hampden, Ludlow, Monson, and East Longmeadow. This is the fifth consecutive year the race has been held.

“I see a lot of middle school patients,” Margolis said of his inspiration to begin the fundraiser.

“At the same time, I decided to learn guitar.” He said it was difficult to learn as an adult. “I thought ‘Man, if I had started when I was young...’”

Margolis has raised approximately $5,000 each year for the school music programs. The funds are divided among the programs based on the size of the school, Margolis said.

Registration for the 5k is $20 in advance at margolismilesformusic.blogspot.com or $25 on the day of the race. Same-day registration is from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m.

The timed race kicks off at 9 a.m. and follows a flat 5k course that begins at the Margolis Orthodontics office at 3 Crane Park Dr. There is ample parking on site. The event is rain or shine.

There will be a cash award of $50 for the first place male and female in three categories: overall, over age 50, and under age 14. All participants will receive a race t-shirt.

Margolis said that each year there are about 100 runners that take part.

“Being our fifth year, we're going for a bigger turnout,” Margolis said.

For those who want to donate, rather than participate, there is a sponsorship form on margolismilesformusic.blogspot.com. While sponsors can donate any amount, those at the $150 Gold and $200 Platinum levels will have their names printed on the back of the race t-shirt, receive a free t-shirt and free registration.

For more information, call MaryLou at 596-9657.