A Way To Win

Community Gathers Sept 13 for 5K Walk/Run to Raise Sickle Cell Awareness

District Heights, MD — On Saturday, September 13, 2025, the serene paths of Walker Mill Regional Park will be alive with energy, purpose, and unity as families, fitness enthusiasts, and advocates come together for the Journey to Excellence 5K Walk/Run. Slated to take place from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., this fun, family-friendly event is more than just a race—it’s a movement for health, community, and sickle cell awareness.

Organized under the uplifting banner of Journey to Excellence, the 5K is open to participants of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you're walking, running, or cheering from the sidelines, attendees will lace up for a cause that blends physical wellness with education and compassion. The event’s core mission is to shine a spotlight on sickle cell disease—a serious inherited blood disorder that disproportionately affects African American and other minority communities.

The registration fee of $25 includes a commemorative event t-shirt, a swag bag, and other surprises. Organizers have also made early bird registration available through September 6, making it easy and affordable for families and groups to join in. A handy QR code and a direct link (https://bit.ly/JTE5K2025) offer simple online access to sign up and get involved.

Set against the backdrop of lush parkland at 8001 Walker Mill Road, the 5K promises a morning of fresh air, fun, and fellowship. With music, refreshments, and the joy of movement, the day aims to inspire community members to live actively while raising funds and awareness for an important health issue.

“This isn’t just a run—it’s a rallying point for advocacy,” said organizers. “Every step taken at the 5K helps drive awareness and hope for those impacted by sickle cell disease.”

The event reflects a growing trend in using athletic and family-centered activities to drive civic engagement and health awareness. For a community often facing systemic health disparities, initiatives like this 5K walk/run provide not just knowledge, but a chance to uplift and connect.

For more information, contact info@journeytoexcellence.org and join the movement to walk, run, and raise awareness—together.