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Spectrum Health, Berkshire Running Foundation host annual Fitness in Recovery 5K

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, September 23rd 2025 at 10:02 GMT by Berkshire Eagle
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Bringing Community, Wellness, and Hope Together: The 5‑K “Fitness in Recovery” Event

On a bright, early spring morning in Berkshire County, a small but powerful group of runners, walkers, and supporters converged for a 5‑kilometer “Fitness in Recovery” race. Organized by Spectrum Health Systems in partnership with the Berkshire Running Foundation, the event was designed to celebrate physical fitness, raise funds for a vital recovery‑focused program, and remind residents that health is a community endeavor. The race was more than a run; it was a statement that wellness can be shared, that every stride counts, and that recovery can be supported through movement, camaraderie, and generosity.

The Mission Behind the Miles

At the heart of the event is Spectrum Health’s “Fitness in Recovery” initiative—a program that blends structured exercise with professional medical support to help individuals transition out of substance‑use disorder, mental‑health challenges, or other health crises. Dr. Emily McArthur, Director of the program, explains that research consistently shows physical activity can reduce relapse rates, improve mood, and bolster self‑esteem. “When people are physically active, they’re less likely to seek out harmful substances and more likely to build resilience,” McArthur says. The program offers low‑cost or free exercise classes, one‑on‑one coaching, and nutrition guidance, and the 5‑K was conceived as a fundraising vehicle to expand those services.

The Berkshire Running Foundation, a nonprofit that has organized charitable runs for more than a decade, provided the logistical backbone: course design, volunteer coordination, and marketing. Founder Michael Hartwell notes, “We love running, but we love community more. By aligning our events with causes that matter to us, we can make a tangible difference.” The partnership was a natural fit: Spectrum Health’s focus on holistic health dovetailed perfectly with the Foundation’s mission to “run for a cause.”

A Day of Community Engagement

The 5‑K kicked off at 8:00 a.m. from the grounds of the Berkshire County Fairgrounds, winding through the scenic paths of the nearby Mill River Park. Participants, ranging from children in school‑organized teams to seasoned marathoners, were greeted with water stations, music, and motivational banners that read “Run for Recovery.” Local businesses—an artisanal coffee shop, a family‑owned bakery, and a boutique fitness studio—set up booths offering free samples, discounts, and information about their own wellness programs. This cross‑community collaboration amplified the event’s impact, creating a ripple effect that extended beyond the finish line.

Registration, which opened six weeks before the race, attracted over 300 runners. Each participant paid a nominal entry fee that covered race materials (a commemorative T‑shirt, timing chip, and finisher medal) and contributed to the fundraiser. In addition, participants could pledge extra donations on the event’s website, which featured a real‑time fundraising counter. By the event’s end, the “Fitness in Recovery” program had surpassed its $12,000 fundraising goal—a figure that will allow Spectrum Health to add two new exercise classes, hire a part‑time fitness coach, and purchase additional equipment for their community outreach.

Voices of Hope

The event’s emotional resonance was captured in several key moments. A 14‑year‑old volunteer from a local elementary school, who ran the 5‑K on behalf of her older brother in recovery, cried when the trophy was presented. “It feels like we’re all in this together,” she whispered, and her brother’s grateful smile said it all. A former patient of the Spectrum Health program, now a mentor, thanked the organizers: “This is not just a race. It’s a reminder that I’m part of a community that cares.”

On the sidelines, Spectrum Health staff set up a “Health Check” booth where attendees could have their blood pressure, heart rate, and BMI measured free of charge. The booth highlighted the program’s holistic approach—recognizing that physical health is inextricably linked to mental well‑being. Local media coverage, which included a feature on the Berkshire Eagle and a segment on the county’s public television station, amplified the story and encouraged other nonprofits to consider similar collaborations.

Looking Ahead

The success of the 5‑K has sparked enthusiasm for future events. Both Spectrum Health and the Berkshire Running Foundation are already discussing a triathlon in the summer and a virtual “Run for Recovery” during the holiday season. The goal: to sustain and grow a community‑centered model that couples fitness with recovery support.

Moreover, the program’s expansion will not only increase the number of participants but also broaden its scope. Spectrum Health plans to incorporate yoga and mindfulness sessions, both of which are gaining traction as adjunct therapies in addiction recovery. The additional funding will allow the program to recruit bilingual staff to serve the region’s growing immigrant population—a demographic often underserved in recovery services.

Final Thoughts

The 5‑K “Fitness in Recovery” event stands as a testament to what can be achieved when healthcare providers, nonprofits, businesses, and individuals unite around a common goal. It is a reminder that recovery is a journey—not a solitary path but a community‑supported endeavor where every step, every mile, and every drop of sweat contributes to a healthier, more resilient future. The event’s legacy extends beyond the finish line: it has seeded hope, fostered partnerships, and, most importantly, funded tangible resources that will support countless individuals on their road to recovery.