Katy’s Back to School 5K Returns Labor Day with Heartfelt Mission to Support Ballard House and Ainsley’s Angels
When runners and walkers gather at the Villagio Town Center in Cinco Ranch this Labor Day, it won’t just be about miles—it will be about making a difference. The 9th Annual Keller Williams Premier Back to School 5K is set for Monday, September 1, 2025, and promises to be more than a race. It’s a heartfelt celebration of community, compassion, and hope.
Why the Back to School 5K Matters
This family-friendly event benefits two remarkable nonprofits—The Ballard House and Ainsley’s Angels of America. The Ballard House offers free, temporary housing for patients and caregivers traveling to Houston for life-saving medical care, while Ainsley’s Angels focuses on inclusion by giving individuals with special needs the opportunity to participate in endurance events.
“Every step taken at this 5K goes toward helping families facing some of life’s most difficult journeys,” shared organizers. “The Ballard House provides a safe, no-cost home-away-from-home for patients and their caregivers, and Ainsley’s Angels helps ensure everyone has the chance to experience the joy of racing together.”
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A Family-Friendly Event for All Ages and Abilities
The event offers something for everyone, from a flat and certified 5K course to a Kids K and Family Walk for all ages. For those who can’t attend in person, a virtual run option ensures no one is left out of the experience. After crossing the finish line, participants can look forward to live music, delicious food, and cold beer provided by Tejas Beer, making it a morning to remember.
“Whether you’re an experienced runner, a weekend walker, or bringing the kids for their first fun run, there’s a place for everyone,” organizers emphasized. “It’s a true celebration of community spirit and wellness.”
Early Bird Registration and Race Day Details
Awards will be given to overall winners, masters winners, and age group finishers, while all Kids K participants will receive a finisher’s prize. Registered participants will also receive a commemorative race shirt and bib, with guaranteed sizing available through August 15.
Early bird pricing is now open, with discounted rates of $45 for the 5K or Virtual 5K (through July 31) and $25 for the Kids K & Family Walk (through August 14). After those dates, registration fees increase, so early sign-up is encouraged.
Race day kicks off early, with packet pickup and on-site registration beginning at 6:15 a.m. The Kids K and Family Walk begin at 7:10 a.m., and the timed 5K begins at 7:30 a.m. with Ainsley’s Angels athletes leading the way.
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Ways to Support the Cause Without Running
The morning culminates in an awards ceremony at approximately 9:00 a.m., along with sponsor tents and family-friendly festivities. And for those who prefer to support without running, direct donations can be made online.
“Even if you’re not a runner, you can still make a difference,” event coordinators said. “We welcome donors, volunteers, and cheerleaders to join us in this mission of hope.”
A Katy Labor Day Tradition with Lasting Impact
The Back to School 5K has grown into a cornerstone Labor Day tradition for Katy and surrounding communities. Its impact extends far beyond a single morning—offering housing, support, and inclusion to those who need it most.
For details or to register, visit runsignup.com/Race/TX/Katy/KatyBacktoSchool5K.
Stay tuned with My Neighborhood News for more updates and community stories that keep Katy connected, informed, and inspired.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
