Race Against Racism

Join us for a virtual 5k and let's use our bodies to move for change!

As former athletes and coaches, we are dedicated to uniting our community through exercise, using our voices and outreach to echo important social issues and taking steps to eradicate exclusive practices in our daily lives. Race Against Racism is a 5k walk, run, bike or swim. The idea came to Lauren and Kat in the summer of 2020 on the heels of George Floyd's unjust murder. Our goal in creating the race was to create a virtual event that would support the black community, raise awareness of white privilege and educate our community about social injustice. We are advocating for an end to police brutality, a call to diversify positions of power and an overhaul to make our community more inclusive in every aspect from education to retail. 

100% of the proceeds from this event will be donated to our partners at ROCA, Springfield division. We chose to support ROCA because their mission resonates with our mission. ROCA's mission is to be a relentless force in disrupting incarceration, poverty and racism by engaging young adults, police and systems at the center of urban violence in relationships to address trauma, find hope and drive change. ROCA, Springfield division specifically achieves their goals stated in their mission by working within Western Massachusetts to prepare young people for careers; including workforce development activities, transitional employment, pre-vocational training and work with ally employers across the region. ROCA specializes in making a difference in the community by working directly with the District Court system, public safety and with teams of High Risk Young Men and High Risk Young Mothers. 

In addition to the intensive level of services and support provided to the young men and women in the high risk programs ROCA also provides less intensive programming and support for the children of young mothers. These less intensive programs include child care with early education, dual programming for both mother and child, developmental and social-emotional assessments and referrals to early intervention services. ROCA is a partner with the Institute for Child Success whose mission is to support policymakers, service providers, government agencies, funders and business leaders focused on early childhood development, healthcare and education all in an effort to coordinate, enhance and improve the maximum effect in the lives of young children.