Annual race against gun violence returns this Saturday with Free Kids Fun Run and Waived Registration Fee for College Students

With one day to go until the 5th Annual Hudson County Strides for Safety 5K: A Race Against Gun Violence, Hudson County Executive Craig Guy is encouraging residents, families, students, advocates, law enforcement, and community organizations to register in advance and join hundreds of community members coming together this Saturday, September 19, in Lincoln Park.

“Strides for Safety has become an important tradition in Hudson County because it brings people together around a shared commitment to safer communities,” said County Executive Guy. “As we enter the fifth year of this event, I want to encourage everyone to register, bring your family and friends, and join us this Saturday. Every step we take together sends a message that preventing gun violence and building safer neighborhoods is a responsibility we all share.”

This year’s fifth anniversary celebration will also expand opportunities for families and young people to take part. For the first time, Strides for Safety will feature a free Kids Fun Run for children ages 5-12, giving Hudson County’s youngest residents an opportunity to participate alongside their families during a shorter run starting at 10 a.m. Local college students can also run for free by using a designated registration code.

“Five years ago, we started Strides for Safety with the goal of bringing our community together to stand against gun violence, and it has continued to grow because people across Hudson County have made it their own,” said Gina Hulings, Director of the Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs | Tourism Development. “This year, we are especially excited to welcome more families and young people to the event. Whether you are running the 5K, cheering from the sidelines or bringing your child to the Kids Fun Run, there is a place for everyone.”

Throughout its history, Strides for Safety has brought together community leaders and public-safety professionals to speak about the impact of gun violence and the importance of collaboration, prevention, and community involvement. Five years in, the event remains more than a race – it is a community-wide show of solidarity and a commitment to creating safer neighborhoods for generations to come.

Over the past four years, Strides for Safety has grown from a new community initiative into an annual gathering of hundreds of residents, families, advocates, law enforcement, and community organizations united around one goal: building a safer Hudson County. Participation has continued to grow each year. The 2024 race welcomed 435 registered participants and 30 volunteers, while the 2025 race surpassed 500 registered participants, demonstrating the community’s growing support for the event and its mission.

Residents are encouraged to register ahead of time to help ensure a smooth check-in process on race day. Registration ends on September 19, click here to register.

For photos of last year’s 5K, click here and for video of last year’s 5K, click here

The post HUDSON COUNTY EXECUTIVE CRAIG GUY ENCOURAGES HUDSON COUNTY RESIDENTS  first appeared on River View Observer.