Stepping Up To Wellness 5K

The 2026 Stepping Up To Wellness Run/Walk is a premier community fundraising event scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026, at the Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville, Illinois. Organized to benefit the Cancer Wellness Center, the event offers both in-person and virtual participation options, allowing supporters to contribute to the center's mission of providing free counseling and support services to those affected by cancer. The morning is designed as a celebration of resilience, featuring a dedicated survivor photo and an opening program before the athletic events commence along the preserve's scenic paved trails.

Independence Grove Forest Preserve is a 1,148-acre nature preserve centered around a reclaimed 115-acre lake in Lake County, Illinois. Geographically, the site features flat to gently rolling terrain with extensive gravel and paved pathways that wind through restored prairies and woodlands. In late April, the Midwestern spring climate is typically variable; average daytime temperatures reach 15°C (59°F), though early morning starts can be quite brisk, often requiring layered athletic wear. The preserve's open landscape provides a beautiful, tranquil setting for the event, though participants should be prepared for potential spring breezes coming off the lake.

Logistically, the event is managed through the Race Roster platform, which facilitates both individual registration and team-based fundraising. Participants are encouraged to customize their personal pages to share stories of how cancer has impacted their lives, helping the event progress toward its significant $250,000 goal. For those unable to attend the Libertyville location, the virtual option allows for participation at any time or place at the runner's convenience. The Cancer Wellness Center provides all services free of charge, making the funds raised during this event vital for maintaining their support groups and health programs throughout the year.