Events
5K Run & Walk with the Dogs - Memorial Park, 10:00AM Start
1K KIDS Fun Run & Walk - Memorial Park, 10:00AM Start
VIRTUAL - 5K Run & Walk with the Dogs
Place
Robert Cahill Drive
Beacon, NY US 12508
About Us
Animal Rescue Foundation, also known as ARF, is a beacon of hope for animals in Beacon, NY, and beyond. Founded in 1986 by Barbara Shea, ARF proudly celebrates 40 years of lifesaving work as a volunteer-driven, no-kill animal rescue and shelter dedicated to the welfare of cats and dogs in need.
For four decades, ARF’s mission has remained steadfast: to help lost, unwanted, abused, and abandoned cats, dogs, kittens, and puppies by providing the care, compassion, and second chances they deserve. Through a combination of rescue efforts, rehabilitation programs, and sheltering services, ARF works tirelessly to ensure every animal that comes through its doors has the opportunity to find a loving forever home.
For animals facing medical, behavioral, or age-related challenges, ARF goes beyond traditional rescue. The organization provides permanent sanctuary and lifelong care when adoption is not possible, ensuring that even the hardest-to-place animals can live out their lives in safety, comfort, and dignity. As ARF marks its 40th anniversary, this commitment to compassion, community, and lifelong care continues to guide its mission—today and into the future.
Description
Celebrating 40 Years of ARF — 40 Years of Saving Lives
Get ready for an exciting community celebration supporting the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) as we honor 40 years of lifesaving work. On Sunday, May 17, 2026, animal lovers, runners, walkers, and their four-legged companions will gather at Memorial Park in Beacon, NY, to make a meaningful impact—with 100% of event proceeds directly supporting the rescue and care of animals in need.
As Beacon’s only nonprofit sporting event dedicated to saving animals’ lives, this milestone race brings together fitness, fun, and compassion in honor of ARF’s legacy and future. The event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, with professionally timed races using chipped running bibs.
🐾 Race Options
1K Kids Fun Run (Ages 3-10) - Children under 3 participate for free
A fun-filled, confidence-building race where every child earns a finisher prize.
Dogs are not permitted in the Kids Fun Run.
5K Run & Walk with the Dogs
Run or walk alongside your leashed pup in this heartwarming main event.
Children under 3 participate for free
Registration Fees
5K Run & Walk with the Dogs
$30 – Early Bird Rate
$35 – Regular Rate (Begins April 1)
$40 – Race Day
1K Kids Fun Run (Ages 10 & Under)
$15 – Early Bird Rate
$20 – Regular Rate (Begins April 1)
$30 – Race Day
🎁 Event Swag:
All participants registered by April 30 will receive an event commemorative item. Register early to guarantee your event swag.
📅 Schedule of Events:
✔ 9:00 AM – Check-in & Registration
✔ 9:50 AM – Dog Costume Contest: Most Original & Most Hilarious Costume
✔ 10:00 to 10:15 AM – 1K Kids Fun Run
✔ Immediately Following – 5K Run & Walk with the Dogs
🎉 Post-Race Celebration
Stay and celebrate ARF’s 40th Anniversary with awards, music, games, face painting, vendor exhibits, raffles, and more. Participants who fundraise can also earn exclusive prizes by reaching fundraising milestones.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or enjoying a stroll with your pup, every step helps save lives. Join us as we celebrate four decades of compassion—one paw at a time.
Important Event Information
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This is a rain or shine event and is non-refundable
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Strollers are permitted only on the 5K course
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Dogs must be non-aggressive, current on vaccinations, and leashed at all times
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Retractable or bungee-style leashes are not permitted
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Each adult participant may be accompanied by one (1) dog, which will receive an official event dog tag. You may also receive a Tag for your at-home pet (cat or dog)
Fundraise For ARF and get Rewarded!
Individuals who commit to raising the minimum amount by April 30, 2026, will be rewarded:
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A Commemorative item
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A refund of the Race Registration Fee
Minimum Fundraising Goals are:
$100 for 1K Participants
$200 for 5K and all VIRTUAL Participants
Here's how to become a fundraiser
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SIGN UP for your event (5K, 1K, Virtual)
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Select "Become a Fundraiser"
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Set Your Minimum Individual Fundraising Goal to $100 or $200, depending on your event.
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Create and customize your individual fundraising page, URL, and Story
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You can also "Join a Team Fundraiser" OR "Create a Team Fundraiser".
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Share and tag #ARFBeacon5K #ARF5K #ARFBeacon on your social page and invite your friends, families, and co-workers to donate.
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Collect donations for ARF! and reap the rewards!
🐕 THIS IS MY FIRST TIME FUNDRAISING. DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS?
Yes! Download a copy of our Fundraising Guide to help you get started
To fundraise without participating in the 1K or 5K, go directly to DONATE!
NOTE: Rewards are based on the Individual Fundraiser's Goal, NOT the Team's Goal.
Click the icon below to download the attached PDF.
Race Contact Info
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Directions
Race Participant Survey
Please complete the following survey to help us better understand your race experience.