Mom Made Me Do This

The Mom Made Me Do This 5K is a premier community event set for May 3, 2026, in Aurora, Illinois. Hosted at the historic Phillips Park, the race centers around the scenic Mastodon Lake, a body of water named after the prehistoric remains discovered on-site during the Great Depression. This event serves as a critical fundraiser for the Fox Valley United Way and the Rush Copley Foundation, with proceeds directly supporting health and educational equity for local families. Participants can choose between the chip-timed 5K run and walk or the "Mile for Mom," which includes a youth-focused obstacle course. With its emphasis on family wellness and community support, the event has become a staple of Aurora's spring athletic calendar.

Aurora is the second-largest city in Illinois, boasting a diverse population of approximately 180,000 residents. The city's demographic profile is characterized by a significant Hispanic or Latino presence, making up roughly 43% of the population. Other major racial groups include White (Non-Hispanic) at 42%, Black or African American at 11%, and Asian at 11%. This multicultural landscape is reflected in Aurora's vibrant local culture and the wide range of community-driven initiatives like the Mom Made Me Do This 5K. Economically, the city has a median household income of approximately $93,600, with a strong emphasis on community philanthropy to bridge gaps in healthcare and early childhood education.

The host venue, Phillips Park, is a 325-acre municipal landmark with a rich history dating back to 1899. It is home to the Phillips Park Zoo, the Sunken Gardens, and the Mastodon Gallery, which houses the skull and tusks of an American Mastodon unearthed in the park in 1934. For race participants, the park offers more than just a course; it provides a comprehensive family experience with a state-of-the-art playground and aquatic center. Runners and walkers traveling to the event are encouraged to attend one of the pre-race packet pickup sessions held at Fox Valley United Way or Rush Copley Medical Center to ensure a smooth start on race morning.