On Saturday, November 1, more than 850 community members came together to celebrate the 30th Annual Hopebuilders 5K, benefiting Atrium Health Levine Children’s in Charlotte, N.C. Presented by Morris-Jenkins and hosted in partnership with the Charlotte Knights, the event marked three decades of impact for children’s health, raising over $113,000 this year to advance patient care and clinical research for local families.
Acknowledging participants at the start line, Meghan Clithero, facility executive and vice president of Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital, reflected on the community’s commitment: “Levine Children’s Hospital stands as a testament to what’s possible when people come together with a common goal. For 18 years, we’ve been recognized as a top children’s hospital by U.S. News & World Report. But what matters most is the care we provide, the lives we touch, and the community that surrounds us.”
The success of this year’s event was made possible by the generous contributions of donors and corporate sponsors, led by presenting sponsor Morris-Jenkins, along with DPR Construction, Aramark Healthcare+, and Metrolina Greenhouses. Morris-Jenkins brought much enthusiasm to the day, complete with their beloved ice cream truck and Truck 17, delighting participants of all ages.
“We’re thrilled to have over 40 team members here today who are running and walking in support of local kids and families,” said Brandon Anderson, president of Morris-Jenkins. “To date, Morris-Jenkins has donated $1.7 million to Levine Children’s Hospital, including support for Seacrest Studios and the new rooftop terrace — spaces that help ensure kids can still be kids while receiving care. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to creating more hopeful experiences for patients and families across our community.”
Morris-Jenkins President Brandon Anderson (left) was joined more than 40 team members at the 30th Annual Hopebuilders 5K.
Patient families and care teams made a powerful showing, bringing energy and heart to the event. With more than 40 teams participating, standout groups included Care for Rare, Rheumatology Rockstars, Pulmonary Superheroes, H³, Kidney Krusaders, and many more.
The Care for Rare team led this year’s fundraising efforts, with over 70 team members raising more than $23,000 for the Ward Winslett Center for Complex and Rare Diseases at Levine Children’s. Their dedication inspired WARD’S Foundation to provide a matching gift, doubling their impact and helping bring hope to kids with rare conditions.
Team Care for Rare, made up of more than 40 caregivers and patient families, was honored as the top community fundraising team, with Elizabeth Civils recognized as the top individual fundraiser.
The Hopebuilders 5K exclusively benefits patient programs at Levine Children’s in Greater Charlotte, ensuring children and families receive the best possible care, close to home. Since its inception, the event has raised over $3.4 million to advance care and research — a powerful testament to what’s possible when a community runs, walks, and gives with heart.