Starting Point 5K and 1-Mile Walk

The Starting Point of New Jersey 5K and 1-Mile Walk returns on April 4th at Cooper River Park in Camden County, a powerful community event centered on hope, healing, and resilience. This year we will be starting at the Piazza at the Park on North Park Drive (near lion statue).

This annual gathering brings people together for a cause that touches us all. Whether you’re running in honor of a loved one, walking your own path, or showing up to champion mental wellness and recovery, every step helps break stigma and build connection.

Proceeds directly benefit Starting Point, a nonprofit offering access to counseling, addiction recovery, support groups, and wellness services, because no one should face life’s challenges alone.

Awards will be given to the top three male and female runners overall (by gun time) and age group awards will be given to the top three male and female in each of the following age groups (by net time): 14 and under 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 and over.

The chip will be timed on a USATF-certified course. There will be a finish line video, and all finishers will receive an e-text message within seconds of finishing, demonstrating their time and pace. Results will be posted at the race site and online the same day, along with an overall listing of finishers and award winners.

This year we are proud to honor Rose Austin with the Community Award. Rose is a teacher at Haddon Township High School and advisor to the school’s Herren Project Club. Since founding the club in 2021, she has helped students raise awareness about substance use disorder, promote healthy lifestyles, and support local organizations including Starting Point.

Through student-led initiatives, substance-free events, and community fundraising, Rose and her students are helping break stigma and build a culture of compassion and prevention. We are honored to recognize her leadership and partnership with Starting Point at this year’s 5K.

Bib packet pickups will be at the Haddonfield Running Company on 121 Kings Hwy E, Haddonfield, NJ on 

Friday, April 3rd, 3:00-7:00 PM

Sponsorship opportunities will be announced soon.

Chip Timing is provided by South Jersey Race Timing LLC.