Fifth Annual End Homelessness Now 5K/10K raises more than $50,000 to help end homelessness

Whether they ran, walked, or cheered from the sidelines, hundreds came out August 5th to support South Oakland Shelter’s fifth annual End Homelessness Now 5K/10K in Southfield. This year, more than 300 people took part and the event raised more than $50,000 for SOS’s housing programs — including financial assistance, supportive services and follow-up care to help move those in need to secure housing.

In addition to exceeding the fundraising goal, a gift card raffle collected more than 25 gift cards to gas stations and grocery stories that will go to helping clients in need.

“We are so grateful for the generosity of our community that comes together each year around this race,” said Ryan Hertz, President and CEO of South Oakland Shelter. “It is due to the support of our sponsors, participants, volunteers and donors that we are able to help hundreds of homeless families in our community secure and maintain housing each year.”

The event kicked off with a one mile fun run, followed by the 5K/10K race, with Caleb Carroll singing the national anthem and Fox 2’s Lori Pinson emceeing.

While participants were out for a brisk run, supporters also had a chance to enjoy bounce houses and bungee run at the finish line, along with several other family-friendly activities and music from DJ BooG. There was a delicious post-race pancake breakfast and celebration ceremony.

One of the event highlights was an uplifting personal account from SOS client Dorothea, who spoke about her positive experience with SOS.

Dorothea grew up in the foster care system and changed schools and families frequently. Despite her tumultuous upbringing, she graduated from high school and college. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in social work from Wayne State and hopes to graduate in Spring 2019. She found housing with SOS support and is working toward a bright and stable future.

Inspirational stories like Dorothea’s fuel our passion for building supportive and caring communities that work to end homelessness.

Other event highlights included Sherri Arbogast winning the Top Fundraiser award, with Jacob Jones a close second by just $5; Flagstar Bank also won awards for top fundraising team and team with the most registered participants. We loved passing out our incentive awards, Google Home Minis for those who raised $250+ and Polaroid cameras for those who raised $500+.

Special thanks to St. David’s Episcopal Church and volunteers for hosting the race and preparing the pancake breakfast; Absopure, Biggby, Jerusalem Pizza and Trader Joe’s for donating food and drinks. Additionally, this event would not have been possible without the support of our presenting sponsor, Christ Church Cranbook; award and finish line sponsor, Stonebridge Financial LLC; finish line sponsors, Episcopal Diocese of Michigan and Flagstar Bank.

To see pictures from the event, check out our Facebook album.