Colorado County Habitat for Humanity celebrates 30 years with first-ever 5K run and 1-mile fun walk

Colorado County Habitat for Humanity (CCHFH) will celebrate 30 years of serving families in the community with its first-ever 5K Run and 1-Mile Fun Walk on Saturday, March 28, in Columbus. The family-friendly event will bring together community members, local businesses, and supporters to raise funds for Habitat’s New Home Build Program and Critical Home Repair Program for senior citizens.

The event will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at 1210 Travis Street in Columbus, and participants of all ages and fitness levels are invited to run, walk, or simply come out to support the cause.

Race proceeds from the event will directly benefit Habitat’s Critical Home Repair Program, which helps elderly homeowners remain safe and independent in their homes by addressing urgent needs such as roof repairs, wheelchair accessible showers, flooring, and other essential repairs.

Since 1996, CCHFH has built 31 new homes and is currently finishing home #32 while also remodeling another home. In its first 10 years, CCHFH built four homes. In 2006, a generous grant allowed CCHFH to expand its efforts with a goal of building two new homes each year, depending on the availability of volunteers and donations.

Since 2023, Colorado County Habitat for Humanity has invested $260,000 in critical home repairs, helping 34 families and 85 individuals across the county. The majority of these households are senior-led families living on fixed incomes, who often cannot afford the repairs needed to keep their homes safe.

“The Wellness Council is excited to sponsor this event. We support organizations that improve the health and well-being of our community, and Habitat’s work—building homes and providing repairs for seniors— addresses one of the most basic human needs. The Run/Walk also offers a wonderful opportunity for individuals and groups to exercise outdoors at their own pace. It is the perfect way to kick off the 2nd Annual Health & Wellness Fair on the Square, Saturday, March 28, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.,” said Tracy Lilie, Health Fair Chair.

Through the generous sponsorship of Cadence Bank—now part of Huntington Bank—and the Wellness Council of the Greater Colorado Valley, free race entries will be provided to first responders and teachers as a thank you for their service to the community.

“Cadence Bank, now part of Huntington Bank, is committed to supporting our community partners as we work together to create economic resilience and financial mobility for families across our footprint,” said Corey O’Brien, Assistant Branch Manager at Cadence Bank in Columbus, Texas. “By supporting Habitat, our philanthropic efforts promote affordable housing, community development, and homeownership.”

Participants who registered before March 16 will be guaranteed an event T-shirt, and runners and walkers can also enjoy swag bags and a fun, welcoming atmosphere for families and supporters.

“This event is a celebration of 30 years of neighbors helping neighbors,” said Kenneth Wicks, Habitat board member in charge of the Repairs Program. “By participating, supporters are helping ensure that working families can stay and thrive in our communities, while our senior neighbors can remain safe, independent, and comfortable in the homes they love.”

To register for the race, become a sponsor, or learn more about Habitat’s work in Colorado County, visit www.habitatcoloradocounty. org.