An opportunity to support refugees through fitness is coming to Bluemont at the end of the month.
On Sunday, June 29, the Safety and Health Foundation’s second annual 5K Run/Walk for Refugees returns. The event aims to raise $5,000 for the Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC), a nonprofit that supports refugees as they begin new lives in the United States.
Since 1991, ECDC has helped more than 89,000 refugees resettle across 24 locations nationwide. Though previously one of nine refugee-resettlement agencies funded by the U.S. Department of State, ECDC has relied on donations since federal funding was suspended in January.
Race director Jay Jacob Wind underscored the humanitarian mission behind the event.
“The Statue of Liberty says, ‘Give me your tired, your poor,'” Wind said. “They’re coming in legally. This is not an illegal immigrant situation.”
In 2024, the funds raised helped bring approximately 2,000 refugees from war-torn countries to the U.S.
The event has attracted notable past participants, including world-renowned Ethiopian cross-country runners Gebregziabher Gebremariam and Werknesh Kidane.
This year’s event begins at Bluemont Park South Shelter, with the 5K starting at 9 a.m. and a free one-kilometer fun run for kids and families following at 9:45 a.m. The paved course, featuring one hill and no street crossings, is accessible to walkers and wheelchair users.
Top three finishers in the 5K will receive cash prizes, while all participants in the kids’ run will earn ribbons.
After the races, attendees can enjoy a picnic at the nearby shelter, with Ethiopian food donated by Dama Restaurant and Cafe. Entry fees cover a t-shirt, bib number, medal, and picnic meal. The current fee is $40 and will increase as race day approaches.
Early packet pickup will be available Saturday, June 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at a location yet to be determined. Same-day pickup begins at 8 a.m. at the park.
Those who prefer not to run can still contribute by volunteering or making a donation.
