Each academic year, more than a dozen schools in the diocese hold a 5K run to help build community spirit and raise funds to support various programs.
The last of this year’s 5Ks will be held Nov. 14 to help St. Rita School in Alexandria. Registration is still open.
“This is such a wonderful event for the community and means a lot to our school,” said Aly Beley, the 5K co-chair for the school and mother of a second grader.
This is the 22nd annual race for St. Rita. Last year, the race welcomed more than 1,000 runners and raised more than $60,000, which went to help with afterschool sports programs and bonuses for teachers.
“When we first came to St. Rita and signed up for the race, I thought it was just another fundraiser, but this is so much more than that. This is a race where so many other runners come, even Olympic runners, to train. It has grown over the years and is just incredible to be a part of,” said Beley.
For years, St. Andrew the Apostle School in Clifton has hosted a spaghetti dinner ahead of its 5K. Erica Spierenburg, a volunteer at St. Louis School, has often attended. This year, she decided to bring the tradition to her children’s school in Alexandria.
The St. Louis 5K was held Oct. 3, the first of what she hopes will become an annual event. The spaghetti dinner was held in the school’s gym the night before. Families came to eat but could also pick up their race packets ahead of the morning rush.
“I was inspired by St. Andrew and saw how it offered wonderful fellowship. Our event was a great opportunity to educate our kids about the importance of friendship and community, but also to be fed ahead of the big race,” said Spierenburg, who has three children at the school.
Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School in Potomac Shores will host its 5K March 13, 2027.
Jennifer Carter, associate director for advancement, said the race aims to raise funds for the special services program at the school.
“It is a great way to involve all the students,” she said. “It is wonderful to see students, families, alumni, faculty and members of our wider community come together to help support making an inclusive education possible.”
Remaining 5Ks this school year, in addition to Saint John Paul the Great, include St. Theresa School in Ashburn in April 2027, and Holy Spirit School in Annandale, and Holy Family School in Dale City both in May 2027. Visit school websites or contact schools directly for registration info.
Shaffrey is diocesan director of media relations.
