DuBois, PA — This Saturday, DuBois City Park will burst into color and community spirit as over 200 participants take part in this year’s Run for a Purpose—a vibrant 5K color run and 1-mile walk uniting people of all ages and abilities in support of local causes.
The event is the result of a powerful partnership between Cohen’s Purpose and The Vision of Hope Church, inspired by years of community outreach and a growing desire to serve the region in meaningful ways.
It all began when Sheri Lockwood attended a fundraiser for the We Care Pregnancy Center in Punxsutawney, PA. Her husband, Pastor Brad Lockwood, encouraged their congregation at The Vision of Hope Church to actively support similar local organizations. This led to the creation of the We Care Community Walk in 2020, which over the years has raised funds for We Care and other community efforts.
In 2024, Cohen’s Purpose hosted their first Color Run at DuBois City Park. After its incredible success, Sheri Lockwood and Jessica Pearce of Cohen’s Purpose teamed up to combine both events into one powerful day now known as Run for a Purpose.
Cohen’s Purpose, named after Pearce’s son, is a non-profit organization that shares Christ’s love with caregivers of children with special needs through respite and community resources.
“Accessibility is so important to us,” says Pearce, emphasizing the significance of holding the event at DuBois City Park, where participants of all abilities can join. “People can either participate in the timed 5k Color Run/Walk or the 1 Mile Color Run/Walk. All proceeds benefit Cohen’s Purpose, We Care Pregnancy Center of Punxsutawney, Pentz Run Youth Services and Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF).”
The mission of The Vision of Hope Church—“to embrace and empower people where they are”—is at the heart of this event. The initiative aims to uplift the special needs community, support expecting mothers, provide opportunities for at-risk youth, and introduce children to the message of Jesus Christ.
This year’s event is packed with fun for the whole family. Activities include a pony petting area, bounce houses, face painting, arts and crafts, and the CEF story house, thanks to help from Nikki Allen of Bethany Covenant Church. A food and bake sale will be hosted by Vision of Hope Church, while Treasure Lake Church will pop fresh kettle corn.
Food trucks on site will include Stirred Cups Coffee, J&C Brick Oven, and Sweet Dreams Snack Shack. Attendees can also browse community resource tables and try their luck at winning dozens of raffle baskets, featuring gift cards and big-ticket items like a fire pit, grill, and Adirondack chairs—all donated by generous local businesses.
The 5K run/walk route will once again follow the scenic DuBois City walkway, while the 1-mile route loops around the park and baseball fields—designed to ensure everyone can participate. The DuBois City Police Department will be present to ensure safety throughout the event.
With registration opening at 9:00 AM on May 10, even more participants are expected to join the over 200 already pre-registered.
“This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community—our volunteers, sponsors, churches, and local businesses,” says Lockwood. “Together, we’re running for a purpose—and making a real impact.”
Register here: http://getmeregistered.com/RunforaPurposeColorRun
Volunteer here: https://www.signupgenius.com/index.cfm?go=s.signup&urlid=10C0D4AA4AE2EA1FEC25-54639635-runfor&useFullSite=true#
Cohen’s Purpose Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553741144315
Run for a Purpose Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1145879043654943
