The 6th Annual BAC 5K Raises Nearly $60,000

The Blythedale Advisory Council's (BAC) 6th Annual 5K to Benefit Blythedale was a fun-filled event that raised nearly $60,000 for Blythedale's Parent and Family Education Program. 

The Blythedale Advisory Council is a committee comprising of young professionals who are committed to Blythedale’s mission and want to make a difference in the lives of children with complex medical conditions. In June of 2020, the committee held its first 5K Walk/Run/Bike for Blythedale, and supporters participated virtually. Over the past six years, this event has raised $306,000 for vital programs at Blythedale.

John Flanagan, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Blythedale, welcomed the crowd and thanked everyone for their support of the Hospital's Parent and Family Education program.

"At Blythedale, we provide highly specialized care to medically fragile children; in fact, we are one of only 14 children’s hospitals in the United States that provides this type of intensive post-acute rehabilitative care," he said. "For all of these children, the road to home is complicated. Your support ensures that we can get them home safely."

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

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

"It was a true honor for Artistry Dance Project to serve as the Title Sponsor of the Blythedale Children’s Hospital 5K," said Kristina Leitenberger." We are deeply grateful to support such a meaningful cause and the incredible doctors, nurses, and staff—but most especially, the inspiring children of Blythedale. Our dancers were humbled to perform and share their love of dance, bringing a bit of energy and joy to a day already overflowing with heart. Being a small part of the Blythedale community is a privilege we hold close."

At the event, participants walked or ran on the track surrounding the Competition Field at Horace Greeley High School, and participated in activities including bubbles and lawn games. The event also featured raffles for several themed baskets, and an aution of tickets to see the Giants, Rangers and Gotham FC.

The event was supported by several generous sponsors, including:

• Title Sponsor: Artistry Dance Project

• Running Sponsors: BTIG and Insight Partners

• Track & Field Sponsor: Acrisure

• Registration Sponsor: White Plains PBA

• Food Truck Sponsor: Veith Electric

At the event, Duck Donuts and the Westchester Burger Company food truck provided delicious treats.

"Since we went back to an in-person event last year, the enthusiasm has really grown," said Event Coordinator Toni Marie Favata. "It was great to see patient families, staff and supporters enjoying the day. We are so grateful to the Blythedale Advisory Council for their continued support and dedication to this event, and to all of our generous sponsors who helped us raise such a significant amount of money for a critically important program at Blythedale."

Proceeds from the event support Blythedale's Parent and Family Education Program, which offers tailored education and training to families so they feel competent and confident taking their medically fragile child home, often for the very first time.

There's still time to support the event: 
Make a Donation!

And check out pictures from the event here: