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

Join the excitement at the Makin’ Strides for Strays event on Sunday, June 7, 2026, held at the picturesque Phillips Park in Aurora, Kane. This dog-friendly 5K walk/run is not just an opportunity to get active; it's a celebration that supports life-saving care for animals in need. Whether you’re running, walking, or enjoying the vibrant family festival atmosphere with friends and furry companions, every step you take contributes to a noble cause.

Participants will traverse a scenic 3.1-mile course around Mastodon Lake, and the day promises fun-filled activities, including music, vendors, dog contests, and games for all ages. After the race, join the post-race party featuring live entertainment and delicious food. Registration includes a stylish Strides t-shirt, an A.D.O.P.T. bandana for your pet, and a swag bag filled with goodies, while donations are warmly encouraged for those attending the festival. Don’t miss this joyful occasion that not only promotes fitness but also shines a light on the incredible work of A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter, which has successfully placed over 30,000 animals into loving homes since 1989. Mark your calendars and get ready to walk,

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 30,000 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! Walk or run 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

$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 private 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.
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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.

Races

  • 5k

    Incl. $3.99 Fee & T-Shirt

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

    $38.99

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Location

Parker Ave. & Ray Moses Dr., Aurora, 60505, IL, United States

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Jun 7, 2026

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