On Saturday, September 7th DuPagePads held their 9th Annual Run 4 Home in Wheaton. This year’s race shattered all previous attendance records in its nine year history with an estimated 1,200 in attendance. Not only did this year’s race bring more people together for our mission to end homelessness, but our teams and individual fundraisers raised $115,000, the most in the race’s history. These funds support our housing programs and critical services which are empowering clients to have a place to call home and rebuild their lives.
The ambiance of the event was filled with excitement and anticipation: crisp running weather, colorful vendor booths, mascots including the Cosley Zoo Bobcat and the Chick-fil-A cow, delicious spread of snacks provided by Whole Foods Market Wheaton and quality coffee and hot chocolate from Starbucks. Participants stretched and planned whether they would try for the newest addition to the event, “The King of the Hill” challenge. The first male and female to reach the peak of the hill about a half a mile into the race would receive a crown, t-shirt, plaque and bragging rights.
Our fundraisers really made our event special this year:
- Once again Mike DeMeritt raised donations for his effort to run 100 miles for DuPagePads and has collected nearly $10,000.
- 7-year-old Aidan Simler sold lemonade on his street to raise money for his fundraising page.
- More than 30 individuals and children donated and came out to be a part of the Friends of Ross MacNeill team. The group honored the life of 11-year-old Ross MacNeill who passed away 4 months ago from a brain tumor. Ross had a passion for helping the homeless. His mother Kim shared, “Every night Ross prayed for the homeless.” He reminded us in his words & actions that “they are just people like me, without what I have”.
We would like to thank our dedicated runners, walkers, volunteers and sponsors for taking a step to end homelessness in DuPage County by contributing to the success of the 9th Annual DuPagePads Run 4 Home.