The 2020 Run For Thy Neighbor 5K went VIRTUAL this year!

In January of 2020 we began planning for our fourth annual Run For Thy Neighbor 5K.   Based on experience from the 2018 and 2019 events, we had great plans to make the 2020 event bigger and better.  Then COVID19 put us into a frustrating and downward spiraling tailspin.  There were no answers to the questions of how bad the pandemic would be or how long it would last. In March we knew we had only two options: cancel the 2020 5K event, or make it virtual.  We had no experience and no knowledge of how to manage a virtual event, but felt we would lose too much momentum if we canceled.  Twenty dedicated runners and walkers made the 2020 Run For Thy Neighbor 5K virtual event one to remember for years to come. When you look at the pictures from this year’s participants, there will be no doubt about the fun they had in completing the 2020 Run For Thy Neighbor 5K.   

Each participant selected their own  route.  There were many and varied.  Some chose the course at North Park that was used in previous years.  Others took to their neighborhood streets. A few strayed off of traditional paved courses to explore new surroundings. We had some serious runners and some who were just out for the adventure. Michelle and Neal were able to complete their 5k in New Jersey just before hurricane Isaias struck. We are quite sure that adventure was not planned!  Kelly completed her first ever 5K running in her Hampton neighborhood.  Very good time too!  Lyle had a four legged running partner, Caramel.  We are not sure which one set the pace. After living near North Park for 30 years Susan and David experienced an area in the park they had never seen before.

Although we all thoroughly enjoyed our 5K, we also found satisfaction in supporting our good neighbor HEARTH for a third consecutive year. A dedicated annual private sponsor donated to HEARTH through our 2020 event.  The proceeds and gifts by participants were donated By Christ Episcopal Church to HEARTH through The Pittsburgh Foundation’s annual “Day of Giving”.  By donating in this way HEARTH will receive additional matching funds. In total, the 2020 Run For Thy Neighbor 5K event contributed approximately $2200 to support our good neighbor HEARTH.  This number does not include the matching funds HEARTH will receive from The Pittsburgh Foundation.

We’re looking forward to holding another 5K in 2021.  Hope to see you there!