Capes were flying and spirits were high Saturday morning, Sept. 13, as more than 2,500 runners, walkers and rollers gathered at the University of North Florida’s J.B. Coxwell Amphitheater for the annual Dreams Come True 5K, presented by TOTE.
The family-friendly event was a celebration of courage, hope and community, and all for a powerful cause: raising funds for Dreams Come True, a Northeast Florida nonprofit that grants dreams to local children battling life-threatening medical conditions.
Participants of all ages showed up in full superhero spirit, some donning colorful capes, masks and costumes to honor the real heroes of the day, the children, known as “Dreamers,” whose resilience inspired every step of the race.
The 2025 event marked a record-breaking year, with more than 2,500 attendees and 176 community teams rallying to support the cause. Nearly $380,000 has been raised from the event, and Dreams Come True is continuing to accept donations at DreamsComeTrue.org to help reach their $400,000 fundraising goal. Proceeds from the event will help fulfill dreams for local children.
“The turnout was incredible,” said Anna Valent, executive director of Dreams Come True. “To see so many people come together for such a meaningful cause was truly inspiring. The money raised will go a long way in bringing joy, comfort and care to children and families who need it most.”
In addition to the professionally timed 5K run, the event included a one-mile fun walk, sponsored by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, and Dreamfest, a kid-friendly area filled with games, prizes and breakfast from Chick-fil-A Jacksonville Market.
The biggest highlight of the event was when 5-year-old Novalee was surprised with details of her Disney Dream. Novalee and her family will be traveling down to Orlando in 2026 to explore all the theme parks and enjoy a special stay at Give Kids The World. Novalee was one of 17 Dreamers who served as event ambassadors. The DCT5K Ambassadors formed run teams, helped promote the event and were honored on stage for their bravery and determination. Additional Dreamers were also recognized during the event’s festivities.
“Our superheroes may not fly or shoot webs, but their bravery is unmatched,” Valent added. “This event is about providing our community the opportunity to celebrate our Dreamers and their families, and stand beside them.”
Since its founding in 1984, Dreams Come True has granted more than 5,000 dreams to children in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia, providing moments of joy, relief and inspiration during the most challenging times of their lives.
The Dreams Come True 5K is the organization’s largest annual community event, and this year’s success was made possible thanks to the generous support of local businesses, sponsors and volunteers who contributed time, resources and in-kind donations.
To learn more about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities or to donate, go to DreamsComeTrue.org.
