The Welcome Run 5k (formerly known as the Run for Refugees 5k) is coordinated by The Welcome Network , a nonprofit organization based in the greater Chicagoland area that is dedicated to upholding the human dignity of some of the most vulnerable people in our community – immigrant newcomers.
Funds generated through The Welcome Run 5k will be used to continue the sustainability of The Welcome Network's Welcome Homes & Resettlement Program, which provides temporary housing to asylum seekers and refugees. The estimated cost to fund 1 of the 6 families in the Welcome Homes is between $15k-$18k per year, which includes resources like rent/utilities, food/supplies, furnishing, case management, transportation, and volunteer/church coordination services. In order to continue to bless newcomer families in their journey to safety and stability, we seek to raise enough funds to cover all 6 families in the Welcome Homes for the next year.
"The Welcome Network is dedicated to upholding the human dignity of some of the most vulnerable people in our community."
In-Person Run/Walk 5K Check in begins at 8AM | 5K Run/Walk begins at 9AM (sharp)
Virtual Run/Walk 5K Run anywhere, anytime! Please submit race times and pictures of smiling faces upon completion to: The Welcome Run Virtual 5k Form
Kids' Fun Run (<10yrs) Check in begins at 8AM | Kids' run begins after the last 5k racer is finished
The 5K is open to serious runners as well as walkers. Strollers and kids are encouraged in our family atmosphere. This event will be timed by j3 Timing to ensure timing accuracy. There will be prizes for top finishers overall and in age-group categories.