Grab a Leash: ARF’s 5K Run & Walk Returns Sunday
Beacon’s most tail-wagging community tradition returns this Sunday as the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF Beacon) hosts its annual 5K Run & Walk with the Dogs at Memorial Park.
Part fundraiser, part community celebration, this popular event draws hundreds of runners, walkers, families, animal lovers, and—most importantly—their dogs for a heartfelt and often hilarious morning.
Celebrating 40 Years Of ARF Beacon
More than 270 participants turned out in support of the volunteer-run shelter organization last year. This year’s event arrives at an especially meaningful moment as ARF Beacon celebrates 40 years of rescue and adoption services for animals in need across the Hudson Valley.
The event takes place Sunday, May 17, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Memorial Park, and registration is still open. Races kick off at 10:00 AM.
New ARF President David Rocha recently told us: “The ARF 5K Run and Walk with the Dogs has truly become a part of the local community. Each year, we’ve seen the support grow with more participants, both two and four-legged.”
He added: “As we look toward our next 40 years, we know our supporters will continue to help carry forward founder Barbara Shea’s vision.”
If you’ve never attended the ARF 5K Run and Walk with the Dogs, know this: few events capture Beacon’s spirit quite like this one. Expect everything from highly competitive runners to dogs who stop midway for belly rubs, socializing, or an unexpected change of direction. It’s all good! Even self-proclaimed non-dog people usually leave smiling.
Here’s what to expect
- 5K Run & Walk (with or without a dog)
- 1K Kids Fun Run for ages 3–10
- Best Dog Costume Contest
- Special prizes for participating pups
- Vendors, activities, and face painting
The Beacon Beacon is proud to support this long-running, no-kill, entirely volunteer-powered organization as an in-kind sponsor. Beyond the joyful chaos of race day lies something much bigger: thousands of animals that ARF has given a second chance to over the last four decades.
And who knows? You may even meet a future best friend while you’re there.
Those interested in adopting can visit ARF Beacon for cats and dogs, or Mid-Hudson Animal Aid for cats. ARF is also actively seeking volunteers and community support.
If you can’t make Sunday’s event or volunteer right now, there’s yet another way to help this good-hearted group. Stop in at Witch Hazel (176 Main Street) and pick up a beautiful, limited edition Good Witch candle, made by Cold Spring’s award-winning candle bar, mundane. A whopping 40% of the purchase price goes directly to ARF.
Adoptable Cats & Dogs At ARF Beacon
Meet some of ARF’s current residents awaiting forever homes including Gabby, Keziah, Oreo, and Spice. If you’re interested in adopting one of these cuties, or another ARF resident, you can complete an application here.
Until next time…
The Beacon Beacon 🧡