Talk about walking with a purpose!
The second annual NIA 5K Community Run and Walk in Bay Ridge fundraised nearly $28,000 to support the organization’s plethora of programs.
Approximately 200 people of all ages participated in the May 21 event, which kicked off at the American Veterans Memorial Pier in the morning and headed south until reaching Shore Road and Oliver Street. Participants then headed back to the Bay Ridge Avenue pier to finish the race, hosted by NIA Community Services Network.
The Dyker Heights-based organization, which celebrates its 41st anniversary this year, aims to improve the quality of life of families, seniors, and communities. The group does so by connecting families with vital human services like after-school and summer programs, cultural arts and recreation programs, youth and family counseling services, and more.
Funds raised at the group’s second 5K will go toward expanding access to will be used to expand access to essential social services, support free community events, and increase educational opportunities for youth and adults, providing resources and programs to over 15,000 individuals and families each year across Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens.
“There was a warm atmosphere of community spirit at the pier as NIA students and families ran, walked, and cheered each other on,” Sarah Harlow, director of development and communications at NIA, told Brooklyn Paper. “We’re so grateful to all of the community members and staff who participated and made this 5K such an uplifting fundraising event.”
Prizes were given to the top fundraisers and race winners, young and old, who NIA’s creator and Board President Michael Bové said Saturday represented a “great blend of our community.”
Sponsors this year included Investors Bank, Planet Fitness, 7/24 Exchange, All American Screening, and Ridgewood Bank — all of whom, Harlow said, “helped make this wonderful community event a success.”
