EmpoweRun / Walk 5K
- Date Sat 2nd May 2026
- Time 9:00AM CDT
- Location Libertyville, Illinois
- Price $38.99
- Races 1 race
- Distances 5km
Last chance to enter
Race day is fast approaching
Event summary
Get ready for an inspiring day of community and empowerment at the 14th annual EmpoweRun / Walk 5K! Taking place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the beautiful Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville, Lake County, this dynamic event promises to be a memorable spring outing for participants and supporters alike. Kick off your morning at 9:00 AM with chip-timed races on a CARA certified course, featuring 5K distances that cater to runners and walkers of all levels. Whether you’re racing for a personal best or enjoying a leisurely stroll, you’ll be part of a larger mission to support survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking.
Join over 400 participants as they unite for a cause that matters. Registration fees contribute directly to vital programs that aid families affected by violence, ensuring they receive the support they need to rebuild their lives. Don’t miss the chance to participate in this uplifting event, where camaraderie and community spirit thrive. Remember to register early to secure your preferred t-shirt size and swag bag before they run out! Mark your calendars for May 2, and join us in making a difference while enjoying a fantastic day outdoors.
Join over 400 participants as they unite for a cause that matters. Registration fees contribute directly to vital programs that aid families affected by violence, ensuring they receive the support they need to rebuild their lives. Don’t miss the chance to participate in this uplifting event, where camaraderie and community spirit thrive. Remember to register early to secure your preferred t-shirt size and swag bag before they run out! Mark your calendars for May 2, and join us in making a difference while enjoying a fantastic day outdoors.
Organiser's Description
UPDATE: 4/13/2026 WE HAVE REACHED THE 500 AND HAVE NO MORE SHIRTS OR SWAG BAGS, YOUR REGISTRATION WILL BE A FULL DONATION TO A SAFE PLACE
The first 500 runners to register are guaranteed their selected size shirt and the 1 swag bag. Please note, that we can not switch sizes until after the event concludes. Thank you for your understanding.
ABOUT THE EVENT
* Chip timed with age group results
* Gun time used for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place Overall Winners
* CARA certified course
* Shirt notice: Participants who register after March 13 may not receive their preferred shirt size. Late April registrations may not receive a T-shirt.
USATF COURSE CERTIFICATION NUMBER: IL16016NM_
_Event Details
DATE: Saturday, May 2, 2026
LOCATION: Independence Grove Forest Preserve
16400 Buckley Road, Libertyville, IL 60048
START TIME: 9:00am
https://www.lcfpd.org/ig/
Pricing
Registration through February 28th, 2026
$30/Children 5 years old and under, $15
Registration March 1 through May 1st, 2026
$35/Children 5 years old and under, $15
Day of Registration
$45/Children 5 years old and under, $15
EVENT SCHEDULE
7:30am Onsite Registration Opens
8:30am Opening Ceremony
9:00am Race Begins
10:15am Closing Ceremony & Awards
PACKET PICKUP OPTIONS
NEW: Extended packet pickup hours, were now open until 7PM at select locations. Be sure to pick up your race packet at one of the convenient times below. If youre unable to attend early pickup, race day packet pickup and check-in will open at 7:30 AM at the event site.
MONDAY, APRIL 27
3:00 PM 7:00 PM
Deerfield Public Library
920 Waukegan Rd., Deerfield, IL 60015
TUESDAY, APRIL 28
10:00 AM 4:00 PM
A Safe Place Administrative Office
2710 17th St., Zion, IL 60099
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29
3:00 PM 7:00 PM
Lake Villa District Library
140 N Munn Rd., Lindenhurst, IL 60046
What is the EmpoweRun / Walk 5K?
The 14th annual A Safe Place EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K is a dynamic fundraising event uniting 400+ runners, friends, and supporters for a memorable spring day. PARTICIPANTS MAY TAKE PART INDIVIDUALLY OR AS PART OF A FUNDRAISING TEAM, coming together to run, walk, or donate in support of survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking while supporting vital programs for Chicagoland families.
Funds raised at the EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K enable us to sustain our comprehensive services for families affected by domestic violence and human trafficking, while also advancing community awareness of the profound impact and repercussions of violence. As the primary service provider in Lake County dedicated solely to supporting survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, fundraising teams play an important role in expanding our reach and impact within the community.
A Safe Place offers comprehensive programs aimed at helping survivors and their children rebuild their lives post-domestic violence, while also tackling the root causes through abuser intervention initiatives. Additionally, our community education efforts raise awareness about domestic violence and human trafficking, empowering individuals to take action towards their eradication. In the past year alone, participants and fundraising teams helped A Safe Place reach over 32,000 community members, highlighting our commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected.
Our services include emergency shelter, permanent housing, a 24-hour crisis line 800-600-SAFE (7233), advocacy, therapy for individuals and children, support groups, art therapy, family visitation, monitored custody exchanges, batterer intervention, prevention education in schools, and community training.
T-Shirts
PLEASE NOTE if you do not register by March 13th, you may not receive the exact shirt size requested.
Awards and Results
We will be Hosting the Awards Ceremony around between 10:00 and 10:15am once a majority or all participants cross the finish line.
Award categories are as follows:
1st, 2nd, 3rd place Women (Overall)
1st, 2nd, 3rd place Men (Overall)
1st and 2nd Women and Men (By Age Groups - 10 and Under, 11-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 & Over)
Finish Line Cutoff Time
All Participants must conclude their time no later than 10:15am.
Timing
J3 Timing will be conducting Chip Timing for the EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K.
Parking
Please follow the EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K signage directing you to the correct lots upon arrival. Parking will be in the 2 lots closest to the start of the race, they will be clearly marked day of. Please see map for parking location as well.
Policies and Guidelines:
STROLLERS/BABY JOGGERS
* Participants with strollers or baby joggers must line up at the back of the starting area to avoid congestion and ensure a safe start for all runners.
* Strollers and baby joggers must be in good working condition and equipped with functioning brakes.
* Children in strollers or baby joggers must be securely buckled at all times during the race.
* Please stay to the right side of the course and be mindful of faster runners passing on the left.
* Refrain from sudden stops or turns that may disrupt other participants. Participants using strollers or baby joggers are responsible for maintaining control of their equipment and ensuring the safety of their child and others on the course. Please be prepared for various weather conditions and take appropriate precautions to keep your child safe and comfortable.
Pets
To ensure the safety and comfort of all participants, only service animals are permitted at the EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K.
Bicycles/Other Wheeled Vehicles
Bicycles, in-line skates, roller skates, scooters, and other wheeled vehicles are prohibited.
Inclement Weather
At A Safe Place, the safety of our participants, volunteers, and staff is our top priority. The EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K will take place rain or shine; however, in the event of severe or hazardous weather conditions, the following policy will apply:
_MONITORING_
Event organizers will continuously monitor weather conditions leading up to and during the race.
We will follow guidelines from the National Weather Service (NWS) and local authorities to ensure safety.
_POSSIBLE WEATHER ADJUSTMENTS_
* Rain: The race will proceed as scheduled unless conditions become unsafe.
* Lightning & Thunderstorms: If lightning is detected within 10 miles of the course, the event will be delayed by 30 minutes from the last lightning strike. If conditions persist beyond a reasonable timeframe, the race may be canceled.
_Communication
_If conditions require cancellation before race day, participants will be notified via email, social media, and our website.
Refund Policy
_The EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K is a fundraising event, and all proceeds directly support A Safe Places programs and services. As such, no refunds will be issued under any circumstances, including event cancellation due to severe weather._
The first 500 runners to register are guaranteed their selected size shirt and the 1 swag bag. Please note, that we can not switch sizes until after the event concludes. Thank you for your understanding.
ABOUT THE EVENT
* Chip timed with age group results
* Gun time used for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place Overall Winners
* CARA certified course
* Shirt notice: Participants who register after March 13 may not receive their preferred shirt size. Late April registrations may not receive a T-shirt.
USATF COURSE CERTIFICATION NUMBER: IL16016NM_
_Event Details
DATE: Saturday, May 2, 2026
LOCATION: Independence Grove Forest Preserve
16400 Buckley Road, Libertyville, IL 60048
START TIME: 9:00am
https://www.lcfpd.org/ig/
Pricing
Registration through February 28th, 2026
$30/Children 5 years old and under, $15
Registration March 1 through May 1st, 2026
$35/Children 5 years old and under, $15
Day of Registration
$45/Children 5 years old and under, $15
EVENT SCHEDULE
7:30am Onsite Registration Opens
8:30am Opening Ceremony
9:00am Race Begins
10:15am Closing Ceremony & Awards
PACKET PICKUP OPTIONS
NEW: Extended packet pickup hours, were now open until 7PM at select locations. Be sure to pick up your race packet at one of the convenient times below. If youre unable to attend early pickup, race day packet pickup and check-in will open at 7:30 AM at the event site.
MONDAY, APRIL 27
3:00 PM 7:00 PM
Deerfield Public Library
920 Waukegan Rd., Deerfield, IL 60015
TUESDAY, APRIL 28
10:00 AM 4:00 PM
A Safe Place Administrative Office
2710 17th St., Zion, IL 60099
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29
3:00 PM 7:00 PM
Lake Villa District Library
140 N Munn Rd., Lindenhurst, IL 60046
What is the EmpoweRun / Walk 5K?
The 14th annual A Safe Place EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K is a dynamic fundraising event uniting 400+ runners, friends, and supporters for a memorable spring day. PARTICIPANTS MAY TAKE PART INDIVIDUALLY OR AS PART OF A FUNDRAISING TEAM, coming together to run, walk, or donate in support of survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking while supporting vital programs for Chicagoland families.
Funds raised at the EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K enable us to sustain our comprehensive services for families affected by domestic violence and human trafficking, while also advancing community awareness of the profound impact and repercussions of violence. As the primary service provider in Lake County dedicated solely to supporting survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, fundraising teams play an important role in expanding our reach and impact within the community.
A Safe Place offers comprehensive programs aimed at helping survivors and their children rebuild their lives post-domestic violence, while also tackling the root causes through abuser intervention initiatives. Additionally, our community education efforts raise awareness about domestic violence and human trafficking, empowering individuals to take action towards their eradication. In the past year alone, participants and fundraising teams helped A Safe Place reach over 32,000 community members, highlighting our commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected.
Our services include emergency shelter, permanent housing, a 24-hour crisis line 800-600-SAFE (7233), advocacy, therapy for individuals and children, support groups, art therapy, family visitation, monitored custody exchanges, batterer intervention, prevention education in schools, and community training.
T-Shirts
PLEASE NOTE if you do not register by March 13th, you may not receive the exact shirt size requested.
Awards and Results
We will be Hosting the Awards Ceremony around between 10:00 and 10:15am once a majority or all participants cross the finish line.
Award categories are as follows:
1st, 2nd, 3rd place Women (Overall)
1st, 2nd, 3rd place Men (Overall)
1st and 2nd Women and Men (By Age Groups - 10 and Under, 11-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 & Over)
Finish Line Cutoff Time
All Participants must conclude their time no later than 10:15am.
Timing
J3 Timing will be conducting Chip Timing for the EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K.
Parking
Please follow the EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K signage directing you to the correct lots upon arrival. Parking will be in the 2 lots closest to the start of the race, they will be clearly marked day of. Please see map for parking location as well.
Policies and Guidelines:
STROLLERS/BABY JOGGERS
* Participants with strollers or baby joggers must line up at the back of the starting area to avoid congestion and ensure a safe start for all runners.
* Strollers and baby joggers must be in good working condition and equipped with functioning brakes.
* Children in strollers or baby joggers must be securely buckled at all times during the race.
* Please stay to the right side of the course and be mindful of faster runners passing on the left.
* Refrain from sudden stops or turns that may disrupt other participants. Participants using strollers or baby joggers are responsible for maintaining control of their equipment and ensuring the safety of their child and others on the course. Please be prepared for various weather conditions and take appropriate precautions to keep your child safe and comfortable.
Pets
To ensure the safety and comfort of all participants, only service animals are permitted at the EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K.
Bicycles/Other Wheeled Vehicles
Bicycles, in-line skates, roller skates, scooters, and other wheeled vehicles are prohibited.
Inclement Weather
At A Safe Place, the safety of our participants, volunteers, and staff is our top priority. The EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K will take place rain or shine; however, in the event of severe or hazardous weather conditions, the following policy will apply:
_MONITORING_
Event organizers will continuously monitor weather conditions leading up to and during the race.
We will follow guidelines from the National Weather Service (NWS) and local authorities to ensure safety.
_POSSIBLE WEATHER ADJUSTMENTS_
* Rain: The race will proceed as scheduled unless conditions become unsafe.
* Lightning & Thunderstorms: If lightning is detected within 10 miles of the course, the event will be delayed by 30 minutes from the last lightning strike. If conditions persist beyond a reasonable timeframe, the race may be canceled.
_Communication
_If conditions require cancellation before race day, participants will be notified via email, social media, and our website.
Refund Policy
_The EMPOWERUN / WALK 5K is a fundraising event, and all proceeds directly support A Safe Places programs and services. As such, no refunds will be issued under any circumstances, including event cancellation due to severe weather._
Races
-
EmpoweRun / Walk 5K
Incl. $3.99 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 2nd May 2026 (9:00AM CDT)
$38.99
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16400 W Buckley Rd, Libertyville, 60048, IL, United States
EmpoweRun / Walk 5K
