The 7th Annual BAC 5K Raises More Than $50,000

The Blythedale Advisory Council's (BAC) 7th Annual 5K to Benefit Blythedale Children's Hospital was a fun-filled event that raised more than $50,000 for Blythedale's Parent and Family Education Program.

The Blythedale Advisory Council is a committee of young professionals committed to Blythedale’s mission and dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children with complex medical conditions. In June 2020, the committee held its first virtual 5K Walk/Run/Bike for Blythedale. Over the past seven years, the event has raised nearly $340,000 for vital programs at Blythedale.

Nathaniel Beers, MD, MPA, FAAP, President & CEO of Blythedale, welcomed the crowd and thanked attendees for supporting the Hospital's Parent and Family Education Program.

"For our families, going home can be overwhelming," said Dr. Beers. "That’s why the program we are supporting today is so important. Through hands-on training and simulation-based education, we help parents and caregivers build the skills and confidence they need to safely care for their children at home."

BAC Chair Julia Singer also welcomed attendees and thanked the Blythedale Advisory Council for its hard work and dedication to helping children and families navigate significant health conditions. With an enthusiastic, "On your mark… get set… GO!" she formally kicked off the 5K.

This year's Title Sponsor was Artistry Dance Project, a long-standing supporter of the Hospital. Artistic Directors Kristina Leitenberger and Lori Lynch are also BAC members. ADP's Elite Dancers performed at center field and supervised games for children throughout the event.

Participants walked and ran on the track surrounding the Competition Field at Horace Greeley High School and enjoyed activities including bubbles, lawn games, and raffles featuring several themed baskets.

The event was supported by several generous sponsors, including:

Title Sponsor: Artistry Dance Project

Running Sponsors: BTIG and Insight Partners

Starting Line Sponsor: Altium Wealth

Registration Sponsor: J&D Ultracare

Food Truck Sponsors: Owen and Victoria Gutfreund, Veith Electric, White Plains PBA, and AWK-Survivor Advocate Attorneys

Duck Donuts and the Walter's Hot Dogs food truck provided delicious treats for attendees.

Proceeds from the event support Blythedale's Parent and Family Education Program, which provides tailored education and training to help families feel confident caring for their medically fragile child at home — often for the very first time.

Check out pictures from the event here: