The Erie County Bar Association (ECBA) will host the annual AKT 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, May 16, 2026. This year's event marks a special milestone with the introduction of the inaugural Kids Fun Run, a new addition designed to engage the youngest members of our community in support of a vital cause which will kick off at 8:30 AM in Perry Square. The 5K race and walk will start at 9:00 AM on West 6th Street, in front of the Erie County Courthouse. All proceeds benefit the ECBA's Attorneys and Kids Together (AKT) program, which supports the educational needs of Erie County students living in homeless situations.
For many students, homelessness doesn't just mean a lack of stable housing. It can mean showing up to school without a backpack, a winter coat, or the appropriate clothes. It can mean missing out on clothes for prom or graduation, or not having books of their own. Since 2000, Attorneys and Kids Together (AKT) has worked to close those gaps. Generously supported by ECBA members, the program provides books, school uniforms, winter coats, and backpacks to children in shelters; connects students with attorney mentors through its Kid Konnection initiative; and helps juniors and seniors cover the costs of cap and gown, yearbook, prom, and SAT fees so that financial hardship doesn't mean missing the milestones of their high school years.
This year's race will offer a virtual option, so participants can join from anywhere in the country.
