Washington Adventist University Hosts Christalis 5K to Support Children in Uganda

Washington Adventist University (WAU) partnered with Christalis, a humanitarian organization serving vulnerable children in Uganda, to host the annual Christalis 5K Race for Hope on its Takoma Park campus September 28th, 2025.

This year’s event brought together runners, volunteers, and community supporters for a cause-driven day of fitness, fellowship, and fundraising. Between the Kiddie Dash, 5K, and Virtual 5K, a total of 164 participants registered to run, joined by 26 volunteers who supported race-day operations.

Through collective efforts from sponsors, donors, and vendors, the event raised $16,330 to support Christalis’ ongoing projects in Uganda. The funds will directly benefit children in the organization’s care, helping provide education, food, and essential resources to improve their quality of life.

“We are deeply grateful for the generosity of everyone who participated and gave,” said Jenna Swamy, project manager for Christalis. “These funds help us continue prioritizing education and basic needs for the children in our care, giving them opportunities for a brighter future.”

WAU served as both a sponsor and host for the event, providing space for the start and finish lines, as well as campus facilities for the runners and volunteers. The event also received support from Takoma Park officials and the surrounding community, who contributed to its success.

Christalis, founded in 2009, is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering orphaned and vulnerable children in Uganda through housing, education, and family-based care programs.

To learn more about Christalis or to donate, visit www.christalis.org/donate. Photos from the 2025 race can be viewed at www.christalis.org/5k-2025-photos.