See You Next Year!
Our 13th Annual 5K Forward: Fast Track to Empowerment was held on Sunday at Hudson River Park’s Pier 45, bringing together hundreds of runners, sponsors, partners, and volunteers in support of Birch Family Services.
This year’s event was especially meaningful as we celebrate 50 years of Birch Family Services—five decades of empowering individuals with autism and developmental disabilities through education, employment, and community support.
Each year, the highlight of the race is seeing the individuals and families supported by Birch come out to participate. Their presence reflects the strength of our mission and the spirit of our community. Parents, loved ones, and friends lined the course, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere. The smiles, cheers, and high-fives embodied what Birch is all about.
Weren’t able to join but still want to make an impact? We are fundraising through June 30th, you can still support today!
To everyone who supported this year’s race by racing, cheering, sponsoring, volunteering, fundraising, or spreading the word—thank you for helping make it such a success.
Congratulations to our top finishers:
1st Place – Male: Mory Elsaify
1st Place – Female: Mackenzie Preston
2nd Place – Male: Amora Elsaify
2nd Place – Female: Marin Varney
3rd Place – Male: Adi Rajan
3rd Place – Female: Samantha Bobal
Top Fundraising Team: Team Sammy
Funds raised through events like our 5K allow us to further our mission and ensure that individuals with autism and developmental disabilities have the tools and opportunities to lead fulfilling lives. Thank you for being part of this powerful effort.
Race finishers can find their results and finish line photos here. View and share all of our race photos here!
Thank you to our sponsors!
Champion sponsor
community partner sponsor

refreshment sponsor
Race Bib Sponsors
Apple Bank
Armstrong Communication Systems Inc
Bob’s Discount Furniture Charitable Foundation, Inc.
Enterprise Fleet Management
Goldin Solutions
Red Sky Events
Total Care Rx
Advocate Sponsors
Aetna
The Beacon Group
Capalino
Chem Rx
IntelliShift
Interior Resources
Pyramid Educational Consultants
UB Green Supplies, Inc.
United Staffing Solutions
Wegmans