14th Annual Vicki Soto 5K

14th Annual Vicki Soto 5K

Join Us for the 14th Annual Vicki Soto 5K on November 7, 2026, at 500 Broad St, Bridgeport, CT. For more information, visit the race website.

Event Overview

On race day, we come together as a community to honor the life, courage, and lasting legacy of Vicki Soto. Whether you run, walk, volunteer, or cheer from the sidelines, your participation helps continue Vicki's passion for education, kindness, and service.

• Community Impact: More than a race, this event is a celebration of a remarkable teacher whose impact continues to inspire thousands of people each year.
• Collective Remembrance: Together, we remember. Together, we give back. Together, we make a difference.
• Registration: Register today and be part of this incredible tradition.

About Vicki Soto

Vicki Soto was a beloved daughter, sister, teacher, and friend whose kindness, compassion, and joyful spirit touched everyone she met. Born and raised in Stratford, Connecticut, she dedicated her life to helping others and found her true calling as a first-grade teacher at Sandy Hook Elementary School, where she created a classroom filled with love, laughter, and learning.

On December 14, 2012, Vicki tragically lost her life during the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting while courageously protecting the children in her classroom. Her extraordinary bravery and selflessness continue to inspire people around the world.

Today, the Vicki Soto Memorial Foundation honors her legacy by supporting education, literacy, scholarships for future educators, and acts of kindness within our communities. Every participant in the Vicki Soto 5K helps ensure that Vicki's passion for teaching and her commitment to making the world a better place continue to live on.

Why Your Participation Matters

When you register for the Vicki Soto 5K, you're doing more than signing up for a race—you are investing in the future of education and helping carry Vicki's legacy forward.

• Book Access: Expand access to books through classroom libraries and literacy initiatives.
• Scholarships: Award renewable scholarships of up to $12,000 over four years to aspiring educators.
• Teacher Support: Support teachers and classrooms through book drives, classroom resources, and DonorsChoose projects.
• Community Strength: Strengthen our community by partnering with local organizations through Giving Tuesday, providing more than $30,000 in support to six community partners.

Every registration, donation, sponsorship, and volunteer makes this work possible.

More Than a Race

The Vicki Soto 5K has become one of Connecticut's most meaningful community events, bringing together thousands of runners, walkers, families, educators, students, volunteers, and supporters each year.

Whether you're chasing a personal best, walking with loved ones, honoring someone special, or participating for the very first time, you'll be part of a community united by hope, compassion, and service.

Everyone has a reason to be here—and we're honored to have you with us.

Get Involved

There are many ways to support the Vicki Soto Memorial Foundation:

• Run/Walk: Register to run or walk.
• Volunteer: Offer your time and skills.
• Donate: Make a monetary contribution.
• Sponsor: Become a race sponsor.
• Team Up: Form or join a team.
• Spread the Word: Share the event with friends and family.

Every contribution helps continue Vicki's mission of inspiring education, kindness, and community.

We Can't Wait to See You

Thank you for helping us celebrate Vicki's life and continue the incredible legacy she left behind.

Every step matters. Every participant makes a difference. Every year, because of you, Vicki's legacy continues to inspire.

Join us at the starting line.

Important Details

Bibs and race shirts must be picked up before the start of the race. No admittance into the Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater without a bib or a spectator wristband.

Awards

Top M/F Overall plus the top 3 M/F in the following age groups:

• 9 & Under
• 10 to 13
• 14 to 18
• 19 to 29
• 30 to 39
• 40 to 49
• 50 to 59
• 60 to 69
• 70 to 79
• 80 & Over

Awards will be given out at the timing tent at the conclusion of the race.