Hope can be found in a variety of ways and on June 21 the Fifth Annual Run for Hope 5K will take place in San Marco to provide just that.
The Villages of Hope is a local nonprofit that helps women in Northeast Florida by providing a sanctuary, a place of refuge, healing, and restoration for women seeking a life free from trafficking, sexual exploitation and addiction.
Their vision addresses the urgent need for long-term housing for women in Jacksonville, offering a supportive community that fosters recovery and independence.
Through the efforts and support of multiple organizations, Villages of Hope and the Keiling Group held an official groundbreaking ceremony for 14 tiny homes on the westside of Jacksonville on July 27, 2023.
The homes will provide shelter for women who have suffered from addiction and sexual exploitation, with each resident participating in a two-year program tailored to their unique needs, featuring trauma-informed services such as therapy, counseling, education, and long-term life planning. The houses will be built by local builders and volunteers.
The 5K is an opportunity for their message to continue to be spread to the local community while also gaining further support to help grow its mission through fundraising.
The run will take place on the Southbank Riverwalk in San Marco starting at King Avenue Station located at 1201 Kings Ave with the 5K beginning at 8 a.m. and a one-mile fun run scheduled to start at 9 a.m.
All participants will receive a medal and t-shirt with their registration for the event.
Each runner can pick up their packet the day of the race by arriving at 7 a.m. or by stopping by a pair of 1st Place Sports locations at 3931 Baymeadows Road or 2018 San Marco Blvd. on June 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Winners will be crowned in the men’s and women’s divisions as well as awards for various age groups.
