Hope House Colorado, an Arvada-based nonprofit that provides resources to teen moms, hosted its 8th annual 5k and Fun Run event on May 1 at Lake Arbor Park. The event raised $68,000 for the organization, a new record for Hope House, and far surpassing the $45,000 fundraising goal.

The event featured a traditional 5k and a shorter Fun Run, which consisted of a 1.4-mile loop around Lake Arbor Park and was more popular with the event’s younger participants. In accordance with Jefferson County COVID-19 protocols, both events began with a staggered start, and masks were required when participants were not actively running.

Thirty businesses and families partnered with Hope House to help reach the nonprofit’s fundraising goal, which was also bolstered by peer-to-peer donations from event registrants. Last year’s event set a then-record of $42,000 raised.

Hope House Founder and Executive Director Lisa Steven said that the support from the community has been heartening, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s been overwhelming to see our champions surround our teen moms at a time of critical need,” said Steven. “So many people showing up for them brings them encouragements beyond words.”

Hope House Colorado supports teen moms all over the state. 28% of last year’s donations came from donors living in Arvada.