In 2001, Hephzibah’s newly inaugurated Western Auxiliary Board organized the first Hoof It for Hephzibah and 300 runners, including several kids from the group home, dashed through Newton Park in Glen Ellyn on a sunny Memorial Day. Once again, the group is working their magic organizing the 18th Annual Hoof It for Hephzibah 5K Run/Walk and Kids’ Races on Memorial Day, May 28, an event that raises funds, friends and recognition for the children and families served through our programs.
This year the auxiliary is working to break last year’s fundraising record of $24,751 and 650 runners, by garnering generous support from local businesses and attracting families and individuals from throughout the western suburbs and Chicagoland area. “The event has grown each year and the main factor is awareness,” explains Western Auxiliary member Tina Hutchinson. “This has really become an event that businesses people from throughout Glen Ellyn and western suburbs look forward to and participate in every year.”
Hutchinson served as the race director for eight years and has many fond memories of the annual event. “The best memories come from the kids in the group home who come to participate and join in the festivities,” she says. Hutchinson recalls a story from several years ago when a child participating in one of the races became separated from her parents. As the worried child searched, children from Hephzibah’s group home came to her rescue and helped her locate her parents. “It’s a feel-good event year after year,” she says.
In addition to the 5K walk/run, young runners can participate in the kids’ races, get their faces painted and enjoy other activities. It is a family event where everyone has the opportunity to participate and support the 1,000+ children and families Hephzibah serves each year.
The event fee is $30 in advance or $35 on the day of the race. Families can register for $125, and entry for the children’s 50-yard-Dash and Quarter-Mile Run is $15. Register HERE.