8999 Fort Hunt Road Pavilion B, Alexandria VA
Friday, June 19th, 2026
3rd Annual You Matter Juneteenth Freedom 5K
Run. Walk. Celebrate Freedom. Give Back.
Join us for the 3rd Annual You Matter Juneteenth Freedom 5K Walk/Run, a powerful community celebration honoring Juneteenth, freedom, resilience, and collective impact. This event brings together runners, walkers, families, and supporters from across the DMV to move with purpose and invest in the next generation.
Whether you’re chasing a PR, walking in reflection, or showing up to support a meaningful cause then this race is for YOU.
Event Details
- Date: Friday, June 19, 2026
- Time: 8:00am (Pre-Race 7:15am Warm-up & Program)
- Location: Fort Hunt Park - 8999 Fort Hunt Rd Pavilion B (further down from previous location inside the park)
- Host Hotel: Hilton Arlington National Landing - 2399 Richmond Hwy, Arlington, VA 22202
Giving Back to the DMV Community
A portion of the proceeds from this event will directly support the You Matter Scholarship Program.
- Scholarships Awarded (Goal): 10 scholarships of $500 each
- Recipients: Awarded to college-bound high school seniors from D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area
- Scholarship Criteria: Must be a graduating high school senior accepted to a college beginning Fall 2026
- Application Essay: “What does Juneteenth mean to you, and how has it impacted your life?”
Scholarship Application
- Link: Apply for the Scholarship - Applications are open now
- Deadline: Monday, June 1, 2026 11:59 pm (EST)
- Recipients Notified: Monday, June 15, 2026 (via email)
- Public Announcement: June 19, 2026 at the race
Awards & Recognition
- Categories: Top 3 Male Finishers
- Categories: Top 3 Female Finishers
- Recognition: Will be given during the post-race program
- Raffles & Giveaways: Exciting raffles and giveaways from community partners and sponsors!
PO' UP! Live Juneteenth Celebration Experience
Keep the celebration going after the race with PO' UP! Live — an interactive, high-energy live game show experience celebrating Black culture, community, college pride, and workplace fun.
- Location: Fort Hunt Park – Pavilion D
- Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Cost: FREE to attend
- Features: Trivia, competition, music, and prizes for contestants and attendees
Stay Connected
For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram: @youmatterjuneteenth5k
When posting, please use:
- #JuneteenthFreedom5K
- #YouMatterJuneteenth5K
- #YouMatterMovement
Thank You
THANK YOU for believing in this mission and for your continued support. Because of you, we are creating access, opportunity, and impact one step at a time. You Matter.
Race Contact Info
Email: info@youmatterforlife.com
If you have questions about the race, scholarships, or sponsorship opportunities, please click the Contact the Race Director button below.
For more information, visit our website: You Matter Movement.
