For the fifth year, Bridges to Independence, a local leader in housing and support services for families experiencing homelessness, will be the primary beneficiary.
Brian O’Neill, Interim Chief Executive Officer for Bridges to Independence, says the money raised from the Bunny Hop is critical to the organization’s mission. “The support from the Arlington Bunny Hop will directly impact the housing and stability of more than 120 families here in our community.” He went on to say, “Bridges is grateful for the continued generosity of Clarendon United Methodist Church, the event sponsors, runners and volunteers who make this event possible.”
People of all ages and runners and walkers at all levels are encouraged to attend this annual event. Put on your favorite costume while you enjoy a fun, healthy, spring weather activity with your friends and family. A family style block party will be featured after the race with characters, free food, costume contests, bounce houses and live music.
Finisher medals will be given to all children crossing the finish line. Medals will be awarded to age group winners and three finishers with the best costumes. The chip-timed 5k course winds through the historic Ashton Heights and Lyon Park neighborhoods and the Columbia Gardens Cemetery before finishing at the church. Well behaved dogs and strollers are welcome.
“We’re really looking forward to this year’s race!” says Bunny Hop Director, Denny Edelbrock. "The Bunny Hop gives us all a chance to be a family and give back to our community."
Registration is open. Participants are encouraged to register online before midnight on Tuesday, April 19. Pricing details are available on the website.
If you would rather cheer on the runners, there are also volunteer opportunities. You can find more information about these opportunities through the link below.
For more information about the 5k race, please visit www.ArlingtonBunnyHop.org.
About Bridges: “Bridges to Independence (founded in 1985) is a local leader in housing and support services for families or neighbors facing systemic poverty. Their mission is to “lead individuals and families out of homelessness into stable, independent futures.” Bridges’ programs include a shelter, housing, a community services center, workforce development, and a very strong youth development program. Bridges operates Arlington’s largest emergency family shelter at 9th Road and N. Highland Street. Bridges has merged with “Bonder & Amanda Johnson Community Development Corporation” (BAJCDC) which means their outreach now extends to the historically underrepresented South Arlington community of Green Valley and includes a strong partnership with Macedonia Baptist Church. Bridges expanded the youth program to create a mentorship program called Bright Bridges to serve youth living at or below the poverty line. Personally, we are very excited about extending the Hop’s impact into South Arlington. Bridges has supported 200 youth this year, which doubled from last year, and programming is occurring at Drew Elementary School. Today, Bridges supports approximately 500 individuals. We believe supporting this initiative clearly helps our community! For more information about Bridges to Independence, visit https://bridges2.org or call (703) 525-7177”