Our 4th annual Hope Starts Here 5K is a great race for runners and walkers of all levels looking for a route steeped in Jacksonville history and benefitting an amazing cause. A lovely trek incorporating the Emerald Trail, the course begins and ends at Operation New Hope, which is housed in one of Springfield’s most iconic buildings. The Hope Starts Here 5K helps Jacksonville build safer communities, stronger economies, and more stable families.

Proceeds from the Hope Starts Here 5K will benefit Operation New Hope, where we believe that we are all better than our worst mistake, worst day, or worst decision. We believe in people’s ability to learn from their errors and transform their lives through commitment and hard work. For the past 25 years, we have worked to build a stronger community by creating opportunities for people with a criminal history to realize second chances by reconnecting to the workforce. Funds raised will be used to provide workforce training, mental health services, and job placement for people affected by the criminal justice system.