On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Cameron Gonzalez and Spencer Hull of the Rock Falls Fire Department to discuss the annual fundraiser, its mission, and what participants can expect on race day.
For the first time, the First Responders 5K will take place on Halloween, Saturday, October 31st at Centennial Park in Rock Falls. The race has traditionally been held in October, but after several participants showed up in costumes last year, the department decided to make Halloween the official race day. Costumes are encouraged but not required, making the event a fun opportunity for runners, walkers, families, and Halloween enthusiasts alike.
Supporting the Muscular Dystrophy Association
The proceeds from the First Responders 5K benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), continuing a longstanding fire service tradition known as Fill the Boot. For years, firefighters raised money by standing along roadways with their boots out to collect donations.
While the cause remains the same, the Rock Falls Fire Department wanted to find new ways to connect with residents and make fundraising more interactive. Events such as the 5K and the department’s annual chili cook-off give the community more opportunities to participate while supporting a meaningful cause.
The department is also introducing an additional way to give back this year. Along with supporting the MDA, organizers are looking to award scholarships to local students pursuing careers in emergency services. The initiative is intended to encourage the next generation of people interested in serving their communities.
A Scenic Route Through Centennial Park
The First Responders 5K will begin at 9:30 a.m. on October 31, with both the starting and finish lines located at the Larson Shelter in Centennial Park.
Participants will travel through part of the park before reaching the canal path. The route continues toward the Route 40 parking lot, passing beneath the highway through a small tunnel before turning around and heading back to the park.
The scenic course offers an opportunity to enjoy the fall foliage while supporting a good cause. Participants do not have to run the entire 3.1 miles, either. Walking is welcome, and families can bring strollers to enjoy the event together.
The department also hopes to offer a children’s fun run before the main race, provided enough participants sign up. If held, the fun run will begin at 9 a.m. near one of the softball diamonds at Centennial Park. Organizers are considering a candy-themed course with stations where children can collect treats as they make their way through the activity.
The children’s fun run is a new addition the department hopes to bring to life this year, adding another way for families to get involved in the Halloween festivities.
How to Register
The Rock Falls Fire Department encourages participants to register in advance through RunSignup or by following the registration link on the department’s Facebook page.
Registration for the children’s fun run closes at 9 a.m. on October 31, while registration for the 5K closes at 9:30 a.m. that morning.
Whether participants choose to run, walk, push a stroller, or dress up in a Halloween costume, the event offers a chance to spend time outdoors while helping support the MDA and local students interested in emergency services.
More Community Fundraising Ahead
The First Responders 5K is one of several fundraising activities the Rock Falls Fire Department organizes throughout the year. The department typically holds its chili cook-off sometime between January and March, continuing its efforts to bring residents together for community events.
Funds remaining after donations and scholarship contributions help support future fundraising activities, allowing the department to continue building on its community outreach efforts.
With a Halloween setting, a scenic route, and a cause that supports both the MDA and aspiring emergency services professionals, the First Responders 5K offers the Rock Falls community a meaningful way to celebrate the season.
Along the Rock is produced by the Radar Free Press. The Radar Free Press is free to the public and relies on community support through likes, shares, and comments.
If you have any questions for recurring guests or episode ideas, please email us at alongtherock@theradar.online.
