Running for a Cause: REALTORS and Neighbors Support Local Housing at Sixth Annual 5K

From Reading-Berks Association of REALTORS

Pictured above: Participants gather at the starting line for the sixth annual Run for Shelter, hosted by the Reading-Berks Association of REALTORS.

On a beautiful Saturday in October, REALTORS, industry-affiliated business professionals, community leaders, and local residents participated at Gring’s Mill Recreation Area for the sixth annual 5K Run for Shelter, hosted by the Reading-Berks Association of REALTORS (R-BAR).

“Two things stand out from this year’s 5K — we raised the most sponsorship money ever and had the most registered runners ever,” said Darren Kostival, chair of the 5K Run for Shelter Task Force and REALTOR with RE/MAX of Reading. “Mother Nature gave us a pretty amazing day!”

Proceeds from the 5K Run for Shelter benefit Habitat for Humanity of Berks County (Habitat) and Neighborhood Housing Services of Greater Berks, Inc. (NHS).

“The Run for Shelter 5K hosted by R-BAR is a great example of organizations recognizing the importance of giving back and engaging with their community,” explained Tim Daley, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Berks County. “Habitat Berks uses these funds to support our workforce housing projects, as seen in the work being done through the Buttonwood Gateway Project.”

Both NHS and Habitat play vital roles in educating prospective homebuyers, expanding access to financing, building and restoring homes, and creating pathways to generational wealth within Berks County communities. The funds donated to the NHS go directly toward closing cost assistance grants for low-income homebuyers.

“Habitat for Humanity and NHS both work hard to make a real difference,” said Lacey Pennypacker, Director on R-BAR’s Board of Directors and REALTOR with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Homesale Realty. “This event helps raise money and awareness for their efforts. Plus, it brings people together for a good cause — and a good run!”

As Daley added, “Who better than REALTORS to understand the importance of homeownership!”

R-BAR members are passionate about supporting Habitat and NHS year-round, but their commitment is especially evident in October, which marks ‘REALTORS Reach Out’ month, a statewide initiative that highlights volunteerism and community impact. Throughout the month, REALTORS and affiliated business partners across Pennsylvania give back through collective efforts in volunteerism, donations, and fundraising.

Last year’s 5K raised $9,421.52, split evenly between NHS and Habitat. This year’s event raised nearly $9,600, with the final total to be announced at R-BAR’s Year-End Brunch in December!

Congratulations to the overall winners, Christian Cortes-Nunez, top overall male winner, and Jess Hetrich, top overall female winner!

R-BAR extends its sincere thanks to everyone who supported this year’s 5K Run for Shelter, including 21 generous sponsors, who raised the most ever for this event — $8,950!

Gold: Breidegam Family Foundation, Fulton Mortgage Company, Neighborhood Housing Services of Greater Berks Inc., and Rivera-Leinbach for Commissioner.

Silver: Caring Transitions of Reading, Habitat ReStore, Jason Burkholder Team with Hometown Property Sales, Stewart Abstract of Berks Co. Inc., Sun Federal Credit Union, and Truist.

Bronze: Bright MLS, Burg Restoration Service, Darren Kostival, REALTOR RE/MAX of Reading, Dierolf Plumbing & Water Treatment, Reading Fightin Phils, and Univest Bank and Trust Co.

Brass: Alyssa Damiani, REALTOR Coldwell Banker Realty, Fidelis Mortgage Corporation, Jersey Ink, Julie’s Olde-Tyme Cho-chos, and Muhlenberg Greene Architects.

Donations: Berks Fire & Water, Darren Kostival, REALTOR RE/MAX of Reading, Lending Heights Mortgage – Todd Hummel Team, and Unique Pretzels.

Save the date! The seventh annual 5K Run for Shelter will be held on Oct. 3, 2026!

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Source: bctv