Potomac Riverkeeper Network's Splash and Dash

Lace up for Stride For Hope 5K Run/Walk & Homecoming Event on the banks of the beautiful Anacostia River! This day celebrates movement, community, and possibility—complete with finisher medals and team challenges with participation in the mile-long Family Fun walk, perfect for kids, first-timers, and anyone who wants to move together while supporting Academy of Hope’s mission to empower adult learners in DC through education, career training, and life-changing through direct pathways to economic mobility and more!

📅 Saturday, April 25, 2026 | ⏰ 8:00 AM | 📍 Anacostia Park, Skate Pavilion, 1500 Anacostia Dr SE, Washington, DC

Race Day Schedule

6:45 AM – Race day check-in and packet pickup opens

7:30 AM – Last vehicle entry into the park (roads closed until about 9:30 AM)

8:00 AM – 5K Run/Walk begins

11:00 AM – Homecoming Festival kicks off with music, food and fun

Additional race information can be found here:

Important Information- Mandatory Vehicle Restriction During the Race

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. All participants must enter the park before 7:30 AM on race day. At 7:30 AM, Anacostia Park Drive will be closed by United States Park Police. No vehicles will be allowed to enter until after this road is opened again at 9:30 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.

About Academy of Hope

Academy of Hope was founded in 1985 by educators Marja Hilfiker and Gayle Boss, who recognized the urgent need for high-quality education for adults in Washington, DC. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into one of the few adult public charter schools in the United States.

Today, Academy of Hope serves more than 1000 adult learners each year across two campuses in Wards 5 and 8. We provide free tuition for DC residents and flexible learning options, including daytime and evening classes, in-person and virtual instruction, and tailored support for learners at all levels.

With a focus on lifelong learning and positive social change, AoH meets the needs of adult learners through direct service, research, and advocacy, supported by dedicated teachers, specialists, and leaders. We stand out among adult education providers by tailoring programs to each learner, from foundational literacy and high school completion to career training and college transition. Our Student Support Team also helps learners overcome barriers by providing childcare, transportation, food resources, housing support, and behavioral health services.

The Academy of Hope Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3), expands these opportunities by raising critical funds to sustain and grow our work. The foundation strives to expand and enhance adult learning opportunities, providing comprehensive support ranging from basic literacy to career mentorship. Together, we are committed to ensuring that every adult learner has the opportunity to achieve their goals and thrive through the power of education.

Join U.S.VETS Washington, D.C. at the inaugural Steps for Vets 5k – Run, Walk, Roll at Anacostia Park on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

Steps for Vets 5K – Run, Walk, Roll is U.S.VETS’ annual peer-to-peer fundraising event in support of our mission to prevent and end veteran homelessness in the United States! We invite you, your colleagues, family, and friends to join us in taking steps for homeless veterans.

Participate as an individual or team captain! Every dollar you raise or donate will support our programs and services for veterans and their families. Every step you take will help veterans regain and maintain independence.

Registration Opens: 7AM

Start Line Countdown: 8AM

Join us in the Go Gray in May Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness 5K walk/run! This event aims to raise awareness and support for individuals who have experienced traumatic brain injuries. Lace up your running shoes and prepare to make a difference as we come together to promote understanding and provide resources for those affected by this life-altering condition. Whether you choose to walk or run, your participation in this event will help raise funds for research, education, and support programs. Together, we can make a lasting impact and show our solidarity with those living with traumatic brain injuries. Let's go gray in May and make a difference!

Register for the Go Gray in May 5th annual event is May 3, 2026.

Celebrate your accomplishment by sharing on social media! #TBIsupportSquad #MarylandGoGrayInMay

As we celebrate the start of LGBTQIA+ Pride month, please come join community members from across the country for the 14th annual DC Front Runners' Pride 5K run/walk. The race celebrates everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community and is a welcoming space for all members and allies to join in a fun morning of sport.

The race starts and ends at the Historic Congressional Cemetery and passes through scenic Washington, D.C., along the Anacostia River trail and the fields at RFK campus.