A Community United for Mississippi’s Foster Youth
On a bright, sun-filled morning in Ridgeland, Mississippi, our community came together for a powerful cause — the inaugural Fostering Hope 5K Run/Walk. Over 100 participants of all ages and abilities laced up their shoes to champion hope for youth aging out of foster care. With every stride along our scenic campus course, runners and walkers helped raise critical funds for Sunnybrook’s life-changing programs that provide safe housing, mentorship, and the skills needed for a successful transition into adulthood.
This incredible event was made possible by the unwavering support of our sponsors and the inspiring leadership of the Madison County Chamber Leadership Class of 2025. Their partnership and dedication helped make our first race truly unforgettable.
We invite you to relive the joy and unity of race day by watching the highlight video below!
Together, we’re fostering hope and changing lives. Get Involved Today!
Fostering Hope 5K | Sunnybrook’s Inaugural Race for Foster Youth (2025 Highlights)
On June 7, 2025, a bright and beautiful Saturday morning in Ridgeland, Mississippi, the Sunnybrook campus came alive with the energy of more than 100 runners, walkers, volunteers, and supporters.
The occasion?
The inaugural Fostering Hope 5K Run/Walk — a joyful, inspiring event dedicated to helping Mississippi’s vulnerable foster youth find the home, hope, and healing they deserve.
From the youngest participants to seasoned runners, families, friends, and ministry leaders, everyone came together as one community united by compassion and purpose. The 5k course, which looped through the Sunnybrook campus and surrounding streets, served as both a physical challenge and a symbol of the journey many foster youth face as they transition into adulthood.
“This was more than a race. It was a celebration of what’s possible when a community comes together to lift up its most vulnerable,” shared Ron Veazey, Director of Advancement at Sunnybrook Children’s Home.
A Day of Joy, Passion, and Purpose
The morning was filled with memorable moments: the buzz of anticipation at the starting line, the cheers from volunteers stationed along the route, and the smiles of participants crossing the finish line, knowing they were part of something meaningful.
Families ran side by side, neighbors encouraged one another, and local church groups and civic organizations came out in full force, all bound by a shared mission to make a difference.
The energy was palpable as runners of all ages and abilities laced up their shoes not just for fitness or fun, but to stand in solidarity with foster youth facing significant life transitions. The event highlighted the very best of our community: friendship, generosity, and the unwavering belief that every young person deserves a chance at a safe, supportive, and hope-filled future.
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The success of this inaugural race was made possible by the incredible commitment of the Madison County Chamber Leadership Committee Class of 2025. Their vision, leadership, and tireless work helped transform a dream into reality, creating an event that will plant seeds of hope for years to come.
In addition, our generous sponsors made a lasting impact through their support. Sunnybrook extends heartfelt thanks to:
- J.S. Iupe’s
- Harper, Rains, Knight & Company, P.A.
- Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company
- WLBT 3 On Your Side
- Derek Tortorich: Allstate Insurance
- Fleet Feet Jackson
- RiverHills Bank
- MS Race Timing & Management Services
- Dependable Dannie
- RCC (Roofing & Construction)
- Explore Ridgeland
Their generosity helped ensure that every dollar raised goes directly to supporting Sunnybrook’s transitional and independent living programs. These programs equip youth aging out of foster care with safe housing, mentorship, life-skills training, and emotional support they need to build strong, purpose-filled lives.
Together, We Are Fostering Hope
The Fostering Hope 5K is more than an event — it’s a movement, a reminder of what can be accomplished when community members come together as shepherd leaders in ministry. From the runners who crossed the finish line, to the volunteers who made sure the course ran smoothly, to the sponsors and donors who gave so generously, every contribution mattered.
Without organizations like Sunnybrook, many of Mississippi’s foster youth would have nowhere to go and no place to call home. The support of our community ensures these young people are not forgotten. They are seen, valued, and given the tools they need to thrive.
Looking ahead, Sunnybrook is already excited to build on this year’s success. Plans are underway to make the Fostering Hope 5K an annual tradition, one that will continue to unite our community and serve as a beacon of hope for Mississippi’s foster youth. Ron’s smile widened.
“This race was a true success, thanks to a community united in hope. Together, we’ve planted seeds for a tradition that will grow stronger each year.”
Get Involved
Whether you joined us for this year’s race or are just discovering our mission, we invite you to be part of the journey. Visit sunnybrookms.org/get-engaged to learn how you can support foster youth through volunteering, donating, or becoming a sponsor for next year’s event.
Every dollar makes a difference. Every action plants a seed. Together, we can help Mississippi’s foster youth bloom where they are planted.
Watch the 2025 Fostering Hope 5K highlights on Sunnybrook’s official YouTube channel: youtube.com/@sunnybrookchildrenshome. See how our community came together to foster hope and make a difference!
Sunnybrook Children’s Home is a 501(c)3 organization. All gifts and donations are tax deductible. To learn more or for corporate sponsorship inquiries, please contact Ron Veazey at rveazey@sunnybrookms.org or call (601) 856-6555.