On Saturday, September 19th, the Allyson Whitney Foundation hosted the Peace, Love, Run Reunion 5K after a six-year hiatus—and it was absolutely worth the wait.

On a warm, sunny September morning, 400 of our closest friends, supporters, warriors, families, and community members came together in Kauneonga Lake, NY, to celebrate, remember, and support young adults facing cancer.

And what a day it was.

We came back to where it all started.

In 2012, the 5K was the very first fundraiser held by the Allyson Whitney Foundation, fueled by the remaining funds raised for Allyson Whitney Strong following her passing. Ally’s family and friends came together to create an event that would carry forward her wish: to shine a light and give hope to other young adults facing the same battle she did.

That first 5K became the launching point for the Allyson Whitney Foundation—and more than 12 years later, Ally’s vision continues to grow.

Since then, the Allyson Whitney Foundation has provided more than $1 million in support to young adults facing cancer through our Life Interrupted Grants, cancer research, Hope Comfort Bags, and Oncofertility Support.

Returning to Kauneonga Lake for the Reunion 5K was more than a race. It was a full-circle moment—a celebration of how far we’ve come and a reminder of why we started in the first place.

The day was filled with smiles, laughter, hugs, memories, music, friendship, and HOPE. From runners and walkers to volunteers, sponsors, families, and longtime supporters, every person who showed up helped make the day so incredibly special.

And, of course, our longtime sponsors—the tried-and-true, day-one supporters who continue to show up for us year after year—were there once again. Combined Energy Services, The Joel and Susan Lewin Family Trust, Nonnis, The Kaufman Family, and so many others have stood alongside us throughout the years. We are incredibly grateful for their continued generosity and unwavering support. We also extend a warm welcome and heartfelt thanks to our new sponsors who jumped right in to help make this reunion so heartwarming!

Our Race Program is a wonderful reflection of the thought, care, community spirit, and generosity that make this event—and the hope we share—possible. Take a look!

Six years later, we came back together.

And it felt like we never left.

Thank you to everyone who made the Peace, Love, Run Reunion 5K so picture-perfect. We truly couldn’t do what we do without you. 💜

Want to see more photos from this incredible day? Click here.

The Allyson Whitney Foundation remains committed to supporting young adults facing cancer in every aspect of their journey. If you would like to help create hope for more young people, please consider donating today. Your support changes lives.