School on Wheels Run, Walk and Wag for Kids 5K Race and 2.6 Mile Walk

The School on Wheels Run, Walk and Wag for Kids is a community-focused, dog-friendly fundraiser supporting School on Wheels of Massachusetts (SOWMA). Scheduled for Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Borderland State Park, the event raises money to support the education, academic growth, and emotional well-being of students impacted by homelessness and poverty. This inclusive event encourages participants to bring their canine companions along for a day of fitness and advocacy.

The event features both a competitive 5K run and a non-competitive 2.6-mile walk. Registration includes a variety of categories for adults and children, with dogs welcome at no additional cost. T-shirt and bib pickup occur on-site the morning of the event.

The course is located within Borderland State Park in North Easton, Massachusetts. The trails wrap around the scenic Leach Pond, offering a mix of flat stretches and natural woodland terrain. In early May, North Easton typically sees mild spring weather with average highs of 18°C and lows of 7°C. While the trails are well-defined, participants should be prepared for typical park conditions, including occasional roots or uneven earth. All participating dogs must be leashed (no retractable/flexi-leashes permitted) and must be up to date on rabies vaccinations and all other required shots.

Registration and check-in begin at 8:00 AM at the park. Free event t-shirts and dog neckerchiefs are provided to all participants who register by the April 24, 2026, deadline. Parking at Borderland State Park is free for event participants but is strictly limited; carpooling is highly recommended to ensure all attendees can find a space. On-course and post-race amenities include "pup cups" for the dogs, "pupsicles" for children, general refreshments, and entertainment. The 2026 event also introduces a new "Flying Dogs" attraction for spectators and participants to enjoy.

School on Wheels of Massachusetts (SOWMA) utilizes 100% of the proceeds from this race to provide one-on-one tutoring, school supplies, and college assistance to children facing housing instability. For logistical inquiries or team registration assistance, participants can contact the event lead, Michael Lombo, at 508-587-9091. Participants are encouraged to join or create teams via the Race Roster platform to maximize their fundraising impact for local students in need.