WEST CHESTER TWP. — About 4,000 runners, families and children from Greater Cincinnati are expected to participate in the sixth annual Shamrock Shuffle 5K, 10K, Leprechaun Lap & Block Party on March 10 at The Square at Union Centre Boulevard, according to organizers.

The event established in 2005 and hosted by Union Centre Boulevard Merchant Association and The Community Foundation of West Chester/Liberty and West Chester Twp., attracted more than 3,000 participants last year, said Melissa Benedict, the foundation’s vice president of donor services.

The Shuffle has grown from a community celebration and parade to its current format, which includes a 5K run/walk, 10K run and Community Block Party. For the second year, businesses, schools, nonprofits or charitable organizations can raise funds through the “Shamrock Gives Back” program, which last year awarded $10,000 to participating charities, Benedict said.

Participants can build a team to raise dollars to support their favorite charitable cause. For every 25 adults (two children equal one adult) participating on a Shamrock Shuffle Team, a $250 grant will be made to the selected cause. If teams register 100-plus individuals, a grant equal to $10 per adult participant will be awarded, she said.

Niki Smith, who established the Zach Smith Memorial Fund, said her group of 120 friends and family members raised $1,400 last year during the event to help improve water safety in honor of her late 6-year-old son, Zach. He drowned during a private pool party at the Lakota Hills Swim Club in June 2010.

“(Zach’s) story was pretty prominent throughout the community. I think it is a great way to know you’re helping your area,” said Smith, of Liberty Twp.

The 5K and 10K race will begin at 8:30 a.m. and conclude at the square — near the First National Bank Clock Tower — with a “Kegs and Eggs” breakfast and Block Party. At 9:30 a.m., children ages 3 to 10 can participate in the IKEA Leprechaun Lap, a children’s fun run around the square.

Contact this reporter at (513) 483-5219 or dewilson@coxohio.com.