Community members are invited to lace up their running shoes and take part in the Run for the Kids 5K on Sunday, November 22, 2026, at 9 a.m. at the Southeast Iowa JBS Sports Complex in Ottumwa.
The event will raise funds to benefit the Runyon family as their daughter, Ashlyn Runyon, undergoes treatment for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Ashlyn, who will turn 3 years old in November, was diagnosed in July and is receiving treatment at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.
Organizers say all proceeds from the race will go directly to the Runyon family to help support them during this challenging time.
Registration costs $30 and includes a race T-shirt, bib and timed race. Awards will be presented to the top three overall male and female finishers. A raffle will also be held at the conclusion of the race for participants.
The event is open to runners and walkers of all abilities. Participants are welcome to push strollers, making it an opportunity for families and community members to come together for a good cause.
The race will take place at the Southeast Iowa JBS Sports Complex, located at 103 Church Street in Ottumwa.
Those interested in participating can register online at https://runsignup.com/Race/IA/Ottumwa/RunForTheKids5K2026.
For more information about the race or to make a donation to the family, contact Kendra Thompson at 641-777-2288.
The Run for the Kids 5K is presented with support from Gregg Young Toyota of Ottumwa, with facilities sponsorship from the Southeast Iowa Sports Center.
