Record-Breaking Funds Raised at Community Bridges 5K

October 21, 2024
President Jim RYan and others stand and hold 4 giant checks

The Boys & Girls Club of Central Virginia, Ivy Creek Foundation, Jefferson School African American Heritage Center and Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry will benefit from the record $51,208 raised at the fourth annual Community Bridges 5K Run/Walk.

Hundreds of runners and walkers braved frosty temperatures Saturday to raise $51,208 for four area nonprofit organizations providing educational experiences, free groceries and preserving the African American community’s heritage in the Charlottesville area.

It was the most money raised in the event’s four-year history.

Nearly 400 people registered for the annual Community Bridges 5K Run/Walk, sponsored by the University of Virginia Office of the President in partnership with the Charlottesville Track Club.

The route started and ended at McCormick Road and Engineer’s Way, with the course making its way through nearby neighborhoods. UVA President Jim Ryan established the event to strengthen connections between UVA and the local community as part of the University’s commitment to being a good neighbor. The event has raised nearly $170,000 to support community organizations.

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This year’s fund recipients are the Ivy Creek Foundation, Boys & Girls Club of Central Virginia, Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry and the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center. 

UVA Today photographer Emily Faith Morgan captured these images of this year’s record-setting event.

Two individuals pose together before setting off on the run

Smiles abound as UVA students join the fourth annual Community Bridges 5K Run/Walk on Saturday.
Three people gather for a photo as another person takes their picture on a phone

Runners, walkers and "sloths" enjoy the chilly but pleasant conditions.

A crowd surrounds Jim Ryan on the walk

UVA President Jim Ryan leads the annual event, showcasing the University’s dedication to being a good neighbor.
The front of the running group takes their first step on the run

Runners kick off and finish the race at McCormick Road and Engineer’s Way.
The sun shines brightly over some runners

Saturday’s event attracts about 400 registered participants.
A runner puts hands in the air in a smiling celebration

The University of Virginia Office of the President in partnership with the Charlottesville Track Club sponsor the annual event.
Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer Kenyon Bonner running in the Community Bridges race

Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer Kenyon Bonner runs in the fourth annual event.
A group of walkers strolls by during the race

Whether walking or running, participants help raise money for four area charities.
Mark Lorenzoni, owner of Ragged Mountain Running Shop, and Ryan smile together

Mark Lorenzoni, owner of Ragged Mountain Running Shop, and Ryan enjoy a successful event, which raised a record-setting amount.

Media Contact

Traci Hale

Senior Editor University Communications

Article Information

November 28, 2024

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