The Race That Started It All Is Back: Join Us for the 2026 ISF 5K for Kids Cancer!

Some events are more than just a tradition, they become the beginning of something extraordinary.

What started as one little girl's favorite season has grown into a movement that has changed the lives of countless children and families battling rare pediatric cancer.

The Isabella Santos Foundation's signature race holds a special place in our hearts. During its very first year, our incredible community came together to raise $7,000 in support of children fighting cancer. That single event became the foundation for what is now the Isabella Santos Foundation (ISF), transforming a grassroots community race into a mission that has united thousands of supporters and raised millions of dollars to fuel groundbreaking research and life-changing programs.

Now, the event that started it all is officially back.

Save the Date

Join us on Saturday, September 26, at Rea Farms for the ISF 5K for Kids Cancer, presented by Uwharrie Bank.

Whether you're an experienced runner, a casual walker, or simply looking for a meaningful way to spend the morning with family and friends, this event is for everyone. Running is completely optional—but making a difference is guaranteed.

Together, we'll celebrate hope, honor courageous children fighting rare pediatric cancer, and continue building a future where every child has access to better treatments and brighter tomorrows.

A Morning Filled with Fun for the Whole Family

Your registration includes access to an exciting lineup of activities, including:

• 5K Race & One-Mile Fun Run – Walk, jog, or run at your own pace.
• Live entertainment featuring Woody & Wilcox.
• Kids Zone with bounce houses, games, crafts, fairy hair, face painting, sparkle tattoos, and more.
• Foam Party, back by popular demand.
• Warrior Wall Tribute honoring children battling rare pediatric cancer.
• Hero, Princess & Mascot Meet & Greets.
• Local food and beverages available for purchase.
• Silent Auction featuring exclusive experiences and items.
• Local vendors showcasing unique products and services.
• OneBlood Blood Drive to help save lives.
• Live DJ, dancing, giveaways, and family-friendly fun throughout the morning.

Every participant will also receive an official race bib, commemorative event t-shirt, and 5K finishers will receive a finisher medal.

Most importantly, every registration helps fund life-changing programs benefiting children and families at Levine Children's Hospital and Novant Health Hemby Children's Hospital.

There Are So Many Ways to Get Involved

Want to make an even bigger impact? We'd love to have you join us beyond race day.

Become a Sponsor

Show your organization's commitment to the community while gaining valuable exposure. Sponsorship opportunities offer a variety of benefits designed to elevate your brand while supporting a meaningful mission.

Become an Ambassador

Help us spread the word! Invite friends, recruit teammates, share on social media, and encourage your network to join the movement. Every conversation helps create hope for kids fighting rare pediatric cancer.

Become a Vendor

Local artisans, boutiques, and businesses are invited to showcase their products and services while connecting with hundreds of community members during this exciting event.

Volunteer

Whether you enjoy greeting guests, helping in the Kids Zone, supporting race participants, or assisting behind the scenes, volunteers (ages 16+) are essential to making this event a success.

Every Step Makes a Difference

This event is about far more than crossing a finish line.

It's about honoring the incredible strength of children battling rare pediatric cancer. It's about supporting families during some of their most difficult moments. And it's about coming together as a community to ensure no child fights alone.

Cancer picked the wrong city—and together, we're proving it.

We hope you'll join us on September 26 for a morning filled with purpose, hope, and unforgettable memories. Register today, invite your family and friends, and help us continue the mission that began with one little girl's dream and has grown into something truly extraordinary.

Together, every step brings hope. Register now!