The annual 5K Run For Hope Festival will be held Sunday, at the West Los Angeles Civic Center & Bandshell. Run For Hope is the only event of its kind in the nation – a day dedicated to celebrating and honoring the memory of loved ones who have died.
In its seventh year, and hosted by OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center, the run focuses on community engagement; bringing people together to support each other in memory of their loved ones, organizers explained.
In the spirit of community and civic–mindedness, this year Los Angeles City Council member Mike Bonin of the 11th District will honor former Los Angeles City Council member, Bill Rosendahl who lost his battle to cancer March 30. Council member Bill Rosendahl served the West Los Angeles district from 2005–2013, and his endorsement was integral to the launch of the first Run For Hope in 2010.
Council member Bonin will kick off the run at the starting line, in memory and in honor of Rosendahl.
“We are proud to honor Councilman Bill Rosendahl at the run, and celebrate his memory while uniting the community in the memory of their loved ones,” said Michele Prince, Executive Director, OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center.
“The Run For Hope is our largest event of the year with an expected 1,700 attendees who have pledged to raise over $480,000 for essential grief support services and the collective benefit of our community,” Prince said.
Deeply rooted in the community are sponsors The Hollander Family and Karma Rescue, who will honor their commitment by showcasing the power of unity by joining hands with paws.
Karma Rescue will bring some of their rescue dogs to the event, as many who are mourning the death of a loved one are often calmed and reassured by the loving companionship of a pet.
“My vision for OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center and Karma Rescue is to have these two wonderful organizations collaborate by uniting people and animals at their most vulnerable times, helping them provide solace and support for each other,” said Jackie Hollander.
To honor the memory of participant’s pets who have died, all will be able to memorialize them on the Zuma Memorial Wall.
There will also be a dog–kissing booth where all can receive a smooch by a pooch.
The event promises to be filled with activities for all, with a festival, memorial wall and a host of vendors with giveaways, especially for children.
“There will also be a variety of entertainment including contortionists and stilt walkers from Aerial Warehouse, the Santa Monica High School Cheer Squad, LACES Jazz Band, Magic Castle Junior Magicians.
For more information, go to:
ourhouse–grief.org/events/run–for–hope
