Record Turnout for the 13th Annual King Cares 5K
See all photos from the 13th annual King Cares 5K here.
Homecoming weekend ended on a high note as nearly 200 runners, walkers, and supporters gathered for the 13th annual King Cares 5K, a tradition that brings the community together in support of King’s longtime partner organizations, the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford and the Orphaned Starfish Foundation (OSF).
This year’s race saw record participation, with 106 online registrations surpassing the previous high from 2018, plus 29 walk-ins and many family members lining the course to cheer.
“This is a special community event that continues to grow each year,” said Director of King Cares Service and Student Services Karen Raidt. “It was so much fun to see younger students standing alongside upper school students, cheering on runners as they crossed the finish line. The energy and teamwork made the day a huge success.”
Upper school students played a major role in organizing and running the event, from set-up at dawn to race-day logistics and clean-up. Alex Moskowitz ’27 noted that the race is both a celebration and a reminder of King’s core values.
“For me, King Cares is a reminder that we are part of something bigger than ourselves,” Alex said. “It’s where teamwork and service go hand in hand.”
Representatives from both partner organizations also expressed their gratitude on the day of the race.
“We have partnered with King for over 10 years; the difference that it has made is amazing,” said Karla Osorio, Director of Operations at Orphaned Starfish Foundation. “A lot of King students have visited our orphanages in Colombia and Costa Rica, and it is super meaningful that the kids are here to support through the 5K race and continue to contribute to OSF.”
James Kendall, Director of Safety and Operations at the Boys & Girls Club, underscored the deep connection between his organization and King.
“Your donations go to support the 500 kids that come through our doors daily,” he said. “Each day, we try to provide opportunities for our kids that they normally wouldn’t be able to get. The Club and the King students have developed a deep connection through volunteering in soccer programming and homework help, and this 5K has become more than a one-day event; we have become like a family. People want to give back, and this partnership is something we look forward to every year.”
Varsity Girls Soccer Co-Captain Phoebe Lewis ’27 reflected on the impact the event was generating.
“Through the support of all of you, we are able to make a difference in so many people’s lives,” Phoebe said. “We are so appreciative and thankful for our partnership with the Orphaned Starfish Foundation and the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford.”
As the last runners crossed the finish line and students posed for photos after the take-down, it was clear that the King Cares 5K continues to grow both in numbers and in impact.