OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center, one of the most respected non-profit grief centers in the nation, will host its sixth Annual Run For Hope 5K Festival today, April 26 at the West Los Angeles Civic Center and Bandshell.
The 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.
This year’s presenting sponsors are The Hollander Family and Best Friend Animal Society, rooting them deeper in the community.
OUR HOUSE’s spokesperson, Melissa Rivers, and Los Angeles City Councilmember Mike Bonin of the 11th District will participate at the event.
Participants have the opportunity to personalize t-shirts with their loved ones’ photos commemorating & celebrating their memories, and take part in three key events:
7:30am
The In-Memory Walk, sponsored by The Lippman Family in memory of Natalie Scharlin Friedman, is a walk for adults only led by OUR HOUSE’s Adult Clinical Team that culminates in an intimate ceremony where participants have the opportunity to share about their loved one who has died, and listen as others share their stories of grief, hope and healing.
9:00am
5K Run/Walk & Family Fun Run
10:00am
Closing ceremony and festival including food trucks, music, a kids fun zone and expo booths.
Melissa Rivers will present awards to the largest and most successful teams.
“The Run For Hope is even more meaningful for me this year as Cooper and I will be participating in memory of my mother,” Melissa said. “Coming together with others in a large group commemorating memories of loved ones is a powerful reminder that you’re not alone and can seek support from others, something OUR HOUSE does beautifully.”
“The Run For Hope is our largest and most celebratory event of the year,” said Michele Prince, executive director, OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center.
“We are expecting 1,500 attendees who have pledged to raise over $350,000 for essential grief support services, something everyone needs in their lifetime in the Los Angeles area and beyond.
This year’s presenting sponsors are The Hollander Family and Best Friends Animal Society. People who are mourning the death of a loved one are often calmed and reassured by the loving companionship of a pet.
Jackie Hollander says, “My vision for OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center and Best Friends Animal Society 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.” Best Friends Animal Society will have a booth at the Run For Hope Festival.