Makin’ Strides for Strays

  • Date Sun 7th June 2026
  • Time 9:30AM CDT
  • Location Aurora, Illinois
  • Price $38.99
  • Races 1 race
  • Distances 5km

Event summary

Get ready for an unforgettable day of fun and philanthropy at the Makin’ Strides for Strays event on Sunday, June 7, 2026, in beautiful Aurora, Kane! This exciting dog-friendly 5K walk/run invites participants to enjoy a scenic 3.1-mile course around Mastodon Lake while making a significant impact on the lives of animals in need. Whether you choose to run, walk, or celebrate with your furry friend, every step taken supports A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter's mission to provide life-saving care for animals.

After the race, stick around for a lively family festival at Phillips Park, featuring music, vendors, dog contests, games, and activities for all ages. This event is not just about racing; it's about community, compassion, and raising funds to help A.D.O.P.T. continue its incredible work since 1989. With no fee to attend the festival and plenty of opportunities to donate, it promises to be a day filled with joy, inspiration, and the spirit of giving. Don't miss out on this chance to make a difference while having a blast with friends and family!

Organiser's Description

WALK. RUN. CELEBRATE. SAVE LIVES.

Join A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter for Makin' Strides for Strays a fun, dog-friendly 5K and family festival at beautiful Phillips Park. Whether youre running, walking, or just enjoying the day with friends (and pups!), every step supports life-saving care for animals in need.
Since 1989, A.D.O.P.T. has placed over 50,000 animals into loving homes. Our dedicated staff and volunteers provide not only life-saving care, but also the compassion, enrichment, and respect every animal deserves.

Every dollar raised matters. Every dollar raised ensures A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter has the resources to care for and protect every animal that comes through our doors. Please consider giving what you can by donating, registering, or helping raise funds.
[A.D.O.P.T. volunteers with shelter dog]
Our volunteers and staff make Makin Strides for Strays possible


WHAT TO EXPECT

SCENIC COURSE: Enjoy a 3.1-mile walk/run around scenic Mastodon Lake.
FAMILY FESTIVAL: After the race, stick around for a lively family festival: music, vendors, dog contests, games, and activities for all ages (pups included!).
TEAM SPIRIT: Team up with friends (or Fido) and conquer the 3.1 miles together.
POST-RACE PARTY: Celebrate your achievement with live music, food and beverages, and plenty of high fives.
Registration includes:
Strides t-shirt, A.D.O.P.T. bandana (for pets in attendance), swag bag, and festival admission _(while supplies last)_.
THERE IS NO FEE TO ATTEND THE FEST, but donations are encouraged!
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UNABLE TO ATTEND?

Thats okay! You can still participate virtually by walking or running in your own neighborhood on June 7th, or stay home and gather donations to support A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter.

Pricing & Packet Pick-Up
5K DAY-OF REGISTRATION: $45
_Race packet pick-up will take place Friday, 6/5, noon7 p.m. and 8:30 on race day.
(Friday pick-up at A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter.)_
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FUNDRAISE TO MAKE AN EVEN BIGGER IMPACT

[A.D.O.P.T. fundraising incentive items including tote, leash, stickers, and notepad]
Earn exclusive A.D.O.P.T. gear and experiences as you fundraise.

$50 -> Love Knows No Breed A.D.O.P.T. Sticker
$100 -> Love Knows No Breed A.D.O.P.T. Foldable Tote
$250 -> A.D.O.P.T. Adventure Leash
$500 -> Love Knows No Breed Notepad PLUS PAW-CASSO EXPERIENCE
Create a one-of-a-kind abstract artwork alongside a shelter dog or cat during a guided enrichment session. Take home a meaningful keepsake while supporting animal wellbeing.
$1,000 -> Above items PLUS CHOOSE 1 PREMIUM EXPERIENCE

PET PHOTO SESSION: Professional photo session with you and your pet. Includes a digital gallery with downloadable images.
CHOOSE THEIR DAY: Help design a special enrichment day for a shelter animal with treats, toys, activities, and guided interaction. Receive photos from the experience.



FUNDRAISER PROMOTION TOOLKIT

Ready to share your fundraiser? Weve created graphics you can download and post on social media or include in emails to help boost donations.

* FACEBOOK GRAPHIC (SQUARE): Download Here [https://imgur.com/a/WeiIvsA]
* BANNER IMAGE (WEBSITES): Download Here [https://imgur.com/a/40k0tjf]
* INSTAGRAM GRAPHIC (1080 X 1350): Download Here [https://imgur.com/a/BeE5KoR]
* FACEBOOK GRAPHIC (SQUARE POST): Download Here [https://imgur.com/a/makin-strides-strays-fundraising-facebook-post-isORzZM]

Simply download the image, upload it to your post, and include your personal fundraiser link. The more you share, the more lives you help save.

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5K AWARDS

FIRST PLACE AWARDS to the top Male and Female finishers!

Medals will be awarded to the 1ST & 2ND Male & Female 5K participants in these categories:

9 & under, 1014, 1519, 2029, 3039, 4049, 5059, 6069, 70 & over.

EVENT LOCATION The festival takes place at PHILLIPS PARK MAIN PAVILION (RAY-MOSES DRIVE). We will meet there before the 5K walk/run around Mastodon Lake Trail.

If you have trouble finding us, type "PARKER AVE. & RAY MOSES DR" into your GPS.

Races

  • 5k

    Incl. $3.99 Fee & T-Shirt

    Sun 7th June 2026 (9:30AM CDT)

    $38.99

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Location

Phillips Park Main Pavilion, Parker Ave. & Ray Moses Dr., Aurora, 60505, IL, United States

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Jun 7, 2026

$38.99