Colors for Hope 5K

The Ava VanderStelt Scholarship Colors for Hope 5K is a vibrant and heartfelt community event created in memory of Ava Rose VanderStelt, who tragically lost her life to suicide in 2022. This meaningful event shines a light on mental health awareness while fostering connection, compassion, and support. Participants gather for a powerful day of remembrance, hope, fun, and fitness—united in a shared commitment to making a difference.

The Ava VanderStelt Scholarship Fund is dedicated to preventing youth suicide by promoting mental health education and resilience. We honor Ava’s memory by empowering young advocates and fostering community dialogue to create a world where every young person feels supported. Transforming grief into action, we strive to build a future filled with hope and healing for our youth.  

100% of the proceeds from the Colors for Hope 5K provide scholarships for local high schools and support Hope Squads, peer-led suicide prevention programs that focus on educating, training, and teaching peer intervention to help combat suicide and mental health issues in our schools.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call 988 or visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat.

5K Race Day Schedule

8:30 - Welcome, Sponsor & Vendor Recognition, and Prayer

8:45 - Color Toss

8:55 - Runner & Walker Line-up

9:00 - 5K Start

10:30 (Est) - Awards Ceremony

Age Groups and Awards for Top 3 Female & Male Runners

8 & under / 9-12 / 13-16 / 17-22 / 23-30 / 31-40 / 41-50 / 51-60 / 61-70/ 71+

For race packet pickup, please go here.

Join fellow runners on July 25, 2026 for the Colors for Hope 5K. It's a fantastic 5K featuring a flat and fast course in Montague.