Academy of Hope 5K Run/Walk for Learning

Join us for a day of fun and hope for our inaugural 5K Run/Walk in beautiful Anacostia Park on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4th, 2025. The 5K starts at 8:00 AM near the Skate Pavilion at 1500 Anacostia Drive, Washington, DC 20020.

Our race day will begin at 7:00 am when our race day registration and packet pickup opens. Please arrive early to ensure you have time to park, get your race gear, and be ready to start your run or walk at 8:00 am. We encourage everyone to register in advance; there will be limited race day registrations available, payable by credit card or payment app only. Due to National Park regulations, no cash or checks will be accepted on race day.

Please watch this space for additional race day details as well as date/time for our advance packet pickup. 

Our homecoming festival will begin at 9:30 am at the same location.

Founded in 1985 by educators Marja Hilfiker and Gayle Boss, AoH is one of the few adult public charter schools in the United States, serving over 800 adult learners annually across two campuses in Washington, DC’s Wards 5 and 8. Committed to empowering adult learners, AoH provides no-cost tuition for DC residents, offering flexible options including daytime and evening classes, both in-person and virtual, to accommodate diverse schedules and learning styles. Formore than 35 years, Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School has provided high-quality education, career and student support services that change lives and improve communities.

With a focus on lifelong learning and driving positive societal change, AoH prioritizes the needs of adult learners through direct service, research and advocacy efforts, supported by a dedicated team of teachers, specialists, and executive leaders. AoH distinguishes itself among adult education providers by addressing the unique needs of every learner, extending support to individuals at basic reading and math levels, as well as those with cognitive and physical disabilities through tailored courses in foundational literacy, high school graduation preparation, career training programs, and career and college transition support. Moreover, a compassionate Student Support Team provides vital wraparound resources such as child care assistance, healthy food and transportation stipends, behavioral health support, and housing assistance to ensure persistence.

The Academy of Hope Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 dedicated to fostering personal and professional-building. We strive to expand and enhance adult learning opportunities, providing comprehensive support ranging from basic literacy to career mentorship. Our commitment is to create an empowered future where every adult thrives through the transformative power of education. Through its support and philanthropic activities, Academy of Hope Foundation ensures that adult learners can achieve their goals and maximize their potential through education, career development and upskilling.