16th Annual Butterfly 5K Raises Record Amount of Funds for Foundation

It truly was a “Sweet 16” for the 16th Annual Butterfly 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, June 7th, 2025. The day began with the blessing of predicted rain holding off until everything was finished. The sky was a little overcast, keeping the heat factor down, and the atmosphere was electric!

There were 639 registered runners with 560 checking in to run. In the 5K, there were 409 finishers; the kids' Fun Run had 44 finishing the race. Participants came from several states, with many being annual runners. The participants, as always, came in all ages. The oldest competitor was 89! There was also one wheelchair racer in each race.

The sponsorships set a record this year, making contributions to The Butterfly Foundation totaling just over $121,000. Every sponsorship dollar goes to a family with a very sick child. As of May 1, 2025, the Foundation has given grants totaling $1,423,815 to the families of 442 children in Wayne and surrounding counties. Several of the Butterfly kids, some who are now grown teens and adults, came to support the Run on Saturday and to participate.

The Butterfly Foundation - Ryleigh Remembered is a true blessing for our community, and Butterfly Foundation board members say the community is a true blessing to the Foundation. With about 70 Board members and volunteers who worked hand in hand, everything at this year’s event went smoothly and efficiently. The Butterfly Foundation extended a sincere “thank you” to everyone who helped make this day a roaring success.