Be a Hero 5K

Be a hero in the eyes of Cunningham kids!

Join us for the 6th Annual Be a Hero 5K

Heroes have made such a big impact at Cunningham that our Be a Hero 5K now occurs annually—and we're thrilled to invite you to this year's event!

Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 9 a.m. | 1301 N. Cunningham Ave., Urbana, IL

Lace up your superhero sneakers and get ready for miles of fun benefitting an incredible cause! No matter your skill level, you can Be a Hero by participating in one of the following races: 

• "The Flash" 5K Race for all runners
• "The Hulk" 5K Walk for all walkers

Awards and recognition will be awarded in the race category only.

Become a Superhero and unlock your official Cunningham hero cape!

When you fundraise $100 or more, you become part of a special group and will receive a hero cape to wear on race day or anytime you're being a hero in your community!

Click HERE to learn how YOU can be a Superhero!

Your heroic support matters! All proceeds from the 5K will help provide much-needed support for the 953 youth and families Cunningham serves. Many young people arrive with histories of abuse, neglect, trauma and mental health challenges. They've experienced rejection and loss. Cunningham offers healing and hope through residential treatment, special education and community-based services.

Learn more about how our programs help youth and families heal, learn and grow at cunningham.org

Cunningham Children's Home is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. All donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

Frequently Asked Questions:

When is packet/swag pickup?

Your packet and swag will be available for pick up all day 8 a.m.-.6 p.m. on Friday, October 3 at the Spiritual Life Center on Cunningham Children’s Home campus located at 1301 N. Cunningham Ave. Urbana, IL 61802. Otherwise, we will have packets available for pickup the morning of the race until 8:40am. 

Where do I park?

Cunningham's campus has multiple parking areas. Follow the signage for parking.

Do I need to register in order to run or walk?

Yes, we want to know you’re walking with us, so we can recognize you as a hero for Cunningham! We also are encouraging every participant to raise $100 to support the critical needs of Cunningham’s youth and families. Your race registration counts towards your goal! Participants who raise an additional $75 or more will receive an exclusive Cunningham Hero Cape to wear on race day and take home!

Do I need to register my children to run or walk?

If you would like your children to be timed or be eligible to earn a cape through their fundraising efforts, they should register.

Does every participant get a cape?

Participants who raise $100 will receive a Cunningham Hero Cape! Your race registration fee counts towards your goal. Wear your official Cunningham Hero Cape during the race or anytime you are being a hero in your community!

How does $100 make a difference at Cunningham?

All funds raised through the Be a Hero 5K help to meet the critical needs of the 977 youth, individuals and families served by Cunningham.

• $100 in our residential programs covers art, music and recreation therapy for our kids.
• $100 in our special education programs will help cover the cost of sensory sets for classrooms.
• $100 in our community services programs will cover the cost of a “startup kit” for youth transitioning into independent living; items include pots, pans, silverware, cleaning supplies, lamps, towels and other household items that will make their first living space feel like home.