The Old Dairy, Macomb IL
Saturday, June 27th, 2026
Event Overview
The Samaritan Well, Inc. is hosting the 25th Memorial John Bliven Walk/Run on Saturday June 27, 2026, during Heritage Days. John Bliven served in the McDonough County Sheriff's Office for 50 years, 8 terms as sheriff. At the time of his death in 1999, he was Illinois' longest serving sheriff. The Samaritan Well, Inc. was incorporated in 1998 as a transitional housing program for women and women with children experiencing homelessness. In 2008, the agency acquired the use of an additional property. With the additional property, the agency was able to expand its services to include men and men with children experiencing homelessness. Today, the agency is continuing to operate the two shelters, one is located at 212 West Jackson Street (First Christian Church) and the other is located at 1306 Maple Avenue (Maple Avenue Christian Church), with program services being used for families and individuals experiencing homelessness.
Registration Details
- Start Time: Registration begins at 7:00 a.m. at the Old Dairy, 210 South Lafayette Street, Macomb, IL 61455.
- Event Start: The 2-mile and 5K run/walk will begin at 7:45 a.m.
- Pre-registration Cost: $30 for adults and $20 for children 12 and under.
- On-site Registration Cost: $35 for adults and $25 for children 12 and under.
Awards and Benefits
- Top Finishers: Awards will be given to top male and female finishers for both runs.
- Child Incentive: All registered children (12 and under) receive a free ice cream coupon for the Old Dairy to be used the day of the event.
- Open to All: Walkers are welcome.
- Proceeds: The proceeds from the event will benefit the Samaritan Well, Inc. transitional housing shelters.
Registration Information
Registration forms may be obtained at the Macomb Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and online at this link. For updates about the event, visit the Samaritan Well, Inc.’s Facebook page. You can also contact the Samaritan Well, Inc. office at (309) 837-3357 between 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday with questions.
Event Schedule
- 7:00 a.m: Registration/Packet Pickup
- 7:45 a.m: 2 Mile Run/Walk & 5K
- Awards: For top male & female finisher for both runs.
- Post-Race: Immediately following race – Awards (outside The Old Dairy)
Additional Information
- Inclusivity: All age groups welcome
- T-shirts: Guaranteed to those who register by Wednesday, June 18, 2026
- Refreshments: Fruit, snacks, & water for all run participants.
- Charity: Proceeds benefit The Samaritan Well, Inc.
