Hundreds of Alexandrians laced up their sneakers on October 19 for ALIVE!’s 44th annual StepALIVE! Walkathon, raising $125,000 to help families facing food insecurity and housing instability.

Held for the first time at George Washington Middle School, this year’s event adopted the theme “New Location. New Routes. Same Mission.” Participants walked either 5K or 5-mile routes through Del Ray and Old Town, enjoying live music, family-friendly activities, and frozen custard from Goodies.

“StepALIVE! shows what happens when Alexandria walks together for a shared purpose,” said Jennifer Ayers, executive director of ALIVE!. “Every step taken represents a neighbor who will have food on the table or support to stay in their home.”

Funds from the event will bolster ALIVE!’s ongoing programs, including its two Community Food Hubs, monthly food distributions, pantry partners, and home delivery service—collectively serving more than 20,000 residents each month. ALIVE! also provides emergency financial assistance, furniture delivery for families transitioning from homelessness, and personalized case management to promote lasting stability.