YMCA of Metro North to Host Charity Virtual 5k Series

The YMCA of Metro North is going virtual this spring with a series of charity virtual 5k runs to support its community-wide assistance efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The three virtual runs will kick off May 14-17 with the “Ahead of the Curve” Charity Virtual 5k.

“Our runners are tenacious and just looking for opportunities to have fun while supporting a good cause,” says Kathleen Walsh, President and CEO, YMCA of Metro North. “I’m an avid runner. I can’t wait to run this 5k and get my family to participate, too.”

The association typically hosts its road race series starting in the late spring. Because of the coronavirus outbreak, several of the races were rescheduled to the fall.

“While this isn’t your typical 5k race, people still love to participate in events,” says Jen Conway, Executive Director, Saugus Family YMCA. The Saugus 5k traditionally has kicked off the association’s road race series at Breakheart Reservation. “This way everyone can stay safe and support a great cause at the Y.”

The YMCA of Metro North has responded to a number of community challenges while their facilities are temporarily on hold and using their facilities for emergency services since the start of the pandemic. The association opened for emergency childcare for essential workers, serves as a temporary homeless shelter, provides Grab N Go meals for children every weekday, and coordinates diaper drives for families who are struggling to afford infant supplies. Proceeds from the charity 5k will be used to support its cause-driven work in the community.

“I couldn’t be more proud of my staff and our association for stepping up while our community has been in crisis,” says Walsh. “This virtual run is just another way the YMCA is adapting and changing to keep people healthy and active wherever they happen to be.”

To join in on the “Ahead of the Curve” Charity Virtual 5k, participants simply need to register for the race, complete the 5k distance at any location between the dates of May 14-17, and share a photo or screenshot to the YMCA social media pages or email a picture of their race. All participants who complete the distance will be entered into a raffle to win prizes. Register at bit.ly/AheadY5k

About the YMCA of Metro North

The YMCA of Metro North is a leading Massachusetts-based nonprofit organization providing health, fitness, and youth development opportunities to the nearly 60,000 individuals it serves annually. Its branch locations in Lynn, Melrose, Peabody, Saugus, and Stoneham host a range of programs for all ages and abilities and never turns anyone away for inability to pay. The association awards more than $1,200,000 annually in scholarships for families to attend the Y Academy, summer camps, and other evidence-based programs such as LiveSTRONG at the Y, Enhance for seniors, cardiac rehab maintenance, and more. Learn more: www.ymcametronorth.org