The first-ever Run for Refuge 5K held on July 25th in Marcellus, NY marked a milestone moment for David's Refuge, a Central New York nonprofit dedicated to supporting parents and guardians of children with special needs or life-threatening medical conditions. Building on the momentum of past events like the International Taste Festival 5k/10k and an event in Bridgeport in 2025, this new event brought the community together for a cause that resonates deeply across the region. 

Runners and walkers of every level came together to share a morning of community, support and good-will. Every registration and donation funded David's Refuge's core mission: to provide respite, resources and support to parents and guardians of children with special needs or life-threatening medical conditions. Because of events like this, the organization can provide overnight respite stays, wellness programming, and community connection for caregivers who rarely get a break.  One of the participants, Amy Grover said "our family had the best time at the first annual Run for Refuge! The course through Marcellus was beautiful and very easy for us to be able to include our daughter in her wheelchair. It’s an event we’ll look forward to year after year now!”

The timing couldn't be more relevant. In 2026 alone, David's Refuge expects to serve over 1,000 families across New York State,  a number that reflects both the organization's growing reach and the scale of unmet need among caregiving families. Events like Run for Refuge turn that need into action where neighbors and local businesses can come together to show support. Community partners like Upstate Medical University, Alan Byer Volvo, Floor Coverings International, Reader HR, McClurg, Marcellus Rotary, Stewart's and Riseform helped make the event possible. 

To learn more about David's Refuge, please visit www.davidsrefuge.org