Makin’ Strides for Strays

Makin’ Strides for Strays

Date: June 7, 2026
Location: Phillips Park Main Pavilion, Aurora, IL

Race Registration Link

Event Highlights

• Walk. Run. Celebrate. Save Lives: Join A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter for Makin' Strides for Strays — a fun, dog-friendly 5K and family festival at beautiful Phillips Park. Whether you’re running, walking, or just enjoying the day with friends (and pups!), every step supports life-saving care for animals in need.
• Animal Support: Since 1989, A.D.O.P.T. has placed over 50,000 animals into loving homes, providing life-saving care, compassion, and respect for every animal.
• Every Dollar Matters: Every dollar raised ensures A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter has the resources to care for and protect every animal that comes through our doors.

What to Expect

• Scenic Course: Enjoy a 3.1-mile walk/run around scenic Mastodon Lake.
• Family Festival: After the race, enjoy live music, vendors, dog contests, games, and activities for all ages.
• Team Spirit: Team up with friends (or Fido) and conquer the 3.1 miles together.
• Post-Race Party: Celebrate with live music, food and beverages, and plenty of high fives.

Registration Information

• Included: Registration includes a Strides t-shirt, A.D.O.P.T. bandana (for pets), swag bag, and festival admission (while supplies last).
• Fees: There is no fee to attend the fest, but donations are encouraged!

Unable to Attend?

You can still participate virtually by walking or running in your own neighborhood on June 7th, or gather donations to support A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter.

Pricing & Packet Pick-Up

• Day-of Registration: $45
• Pick-up: Race packet pick-up will take place Friday, 6/5, noon–7 p.m. and 8:30 on race day, with Friday pick-up at A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter.

Fundraise to Make an Even Bigger Impact

• $50: Love Knows No Breed A.D.O.P.T. Sticker
• $100: Love Knows No Breed A.D.O.P.T. Foldable Tote
• $250: A.D.O.P.T. Adventure Leash
• $500: Love Knows No Breed Notepad + Paw-casso Experience (create a unique artwork with a shelter animal).

Fundraiser Promotion Toolkit

Ready to share your fundraiser? We’ve created graphics you can download and post on social media or include in emails to help boost donations.

• Facebook Graphic (Square): Download Here
• Banner Image (Websites): Download Here
• Instagram Graphic (1080 x 1350): Download Here

5K Awards

• Awards: First place awards to the top Male and Female finishers!
• Medals: Medals will be awarded to the 1st & 2nd Male & Female 5K participants in various age categories.

Event Location

The festival takes place at Phillips Park Main Pavilion (Ray-Moses Drive). We will meet there before the 5K walk/run around Mastodon Lake Trail. If you have trouble finding us, type "Parker Ave. & Ray Moses Dr" into your GPS.