WRC Logo
runsignup.com

Academy of Hope 5K Run/Walk for Learning

location_city Washington

location_on District of Columbia

flag United States

calendar_today 25 Apr, 2026

directions_run Running

language Official Website

Register

About the Event

Join us for our inaugural 5K Run/Walk in beautiful Anacostia Park! This family-friendly event brings together fitness, fun, and community while supporting Academy of Hope’s mission to empower adult learners in DC through education, career training, and life-changing support services.

📅 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
9:30 AM – Homecoming Festival kicks off with music, food and fun

 

Important Information

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 800 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.

Races Offered

Virtual 5K

Apr 25, 2026

straighten

Distance — 5K

terrain

Type — Road running

timer

00:00

5K Run/Walk

Apr 25, 2026

straighten

Distance — 5K

terrain

Type — Road running

timer

08:00

Weather Overview

These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for April in Washington.

Temp (°C)
Feels Like (°C)
thermostat 8.7° / 20.3°
wb_sunny 5.7° / 17.7°
Wind (km/h)
Humidity (%)
air 11.8 /
water_drop 63.3%

About Washington

Scenic view of

Washington, D.C., officially the District of Columbia and commonly known as simply Washington or D.C., is the capital city and federal district of the United States. The city is separated from Virginia to its southwest by the Potomac River and shares land borders with Maryland to its north and east. It was named after George Washington, a Founding Father and the first president of the United States. The district is named for Columbia, the female personification of the nation.

Read more launch

Hotels & Places to Stay

Nearby Races

Al Lewis 10-Miler and 5 Miler

Al Lewis 10-Miler and 5 Miler

location_on Washington, District of Columbia, US

calendar_today Jan 11, 2026

Valentine's 5K

Valentine's 5K

location_on Washington, District of Columbia, US

calendar_today Feb 08, 2026

Cupid's Chase 5K Silver Spring

Cupid's Chase 5K Silver Spring

location_on Silver Spring, Maryland, US

calendar_today Feb 14, 2026

Operation TRI-bernation - Thursday Morning Swim Training at Georgetown Prep

Operation TRI-bernation - Thursday Morning Swim T…

location_on North Bethesda, Maryland, US

calendar_today Jan 15, 2026

Recommended for You

Hand-picked events we think you’ll love.

Our pick
Run Manatee - Rye Preserve 5K -2026

Nov 21, 2026

Run Manatee - Rye Preserve 5K -2026

The RUN Manatee 5k series offers THREE adventures to celebrate ONE community. Participants will discover Manatee County…

Read more
Our pick
Turkey Trails - Sioux Falls

Nov 28, 2026

Turkey Trails - Sioux Falls

Join us for the annual Turkey Trails 5k/10k!  A fun, Thanksgiving-themed event that is perfect for the whole family.The…

Read more
Our pick
Candy Cane Course- Lincoln

Dec 13, 2026

Candy Cane Course- Lincoln

Join us for the annual Candy Cane Course 5k/12k!  A fun, Christmas-themed event that is perfect for the whole family.Th…

Read more
Our pick
Space Coast Triathlon and Duathlon

Mar 21, 2027

Space Coast Triathlon and Duathlon

WE ARE NOW OFFERING AN AQUABIKE DIVISION! Triathlon Information:Join us for the annual Space Coast Triathlon, held in …

Read more

Get race deals & updates

Subscribe to our newsletter for curated race picks and discounts.