Run & Walk for Life 5K brings families together for fitness and fun

Participants in the Run & Walk for Life event take off at the starting line. Valley News/Shane Gibson photo

More than 350 community members gathered Saturday, March 22 for the Run & Walk for Life 5K at Linfield Christian School, participating in a day of walking, running, fellowship and family fun to support the Birth Choice of Temecula’s life-affirming mission.

The event featured a 5K course, a kiddie fun run, face painting, games, and live worship music provided by local church bands. Participants enjoyed the sunshine and a festive atmosphere as they made their way through the course lined with educational signs about parenting, reproductive health, and the nonprofit’s services.

“It was an incredible day,” said Chief Executive Officer Janette Chun. “The energy was high, and it was beautiful to see entire families out on the course, including one couple who held hands the entire race and melted everyone’s hearts.”

Local pastors offered prayers over the organization and its mission. Birth Choice focuses on supporting individuals facing pregnancy, parenting, and reproductive health concerns. It is entirely donor-funded and relies on the support of events, churches and private donors to provide free resources and care to families in need and to allow moms and dads to choose life and support their continued growth during their parenting journeys.

“This is truly a community effort,” organizers added. “It takes a village to make this ministry work.”

Organizers say they hope to expand next year’s 5K by including timed races for more competitive runners.

For more information on Birth Choice of Temecula or to get involved, visit www.friendsofbcc.org.

Julie Reeder
Julie Reeder