Citizen Advocacy of Phoenixville is set to host its annual run on Saturday, October 25, 2025, in Chester County. This marks the event’s 39th year, providing an opportunity for participants to raise funds that significantly impact local lives. The event includes both a 5K and a 10K race, with hundreds expected to participate.
Alicia DeMont, the Executive Director of Citizen Advocacy, expressed her pride in organizing this community-centered event. “As one of the race organizers and an employee of Citizen Advocacy, it’s a true honor to help sustain such a meaningful and long-standing tradition,” she said. “The Phoenixville Run has always been more than just a race; it’s a celebration of community spirit, generosity, and connection.”
Support from the community has been overwhelming. DeMont reflected on the continued encouragement from volunteers and local businesses, stating, “This event simply wouldn’t be possible without them. I feel incredibly fortunate to witness, firsthand, just how caring and committed the people of Phoenixville are.” The run serves as a powerful reminder of the community’s strength and heart each year.
Participants Share Their Experiences
Among the runners is Jamie Parker from Collegeville, who is returning for her second year with her boyfriend. She fondly recalled her first experience, noting, “It’s a very nice route with lots of colorful leaves — it’s not too steep and it’s also curvy and interesting. Alicia’s team is highly organized and has it down to a science.”
The mission of Citizen Advocacy focuses on fostering life-changing relationships within the community. “For over 40 years, Citizen Advocacy has fostered long-term relationships between volunteer advocates and people with disabilities who are vulnerable due to society’s response to their disability,” DeMont explained. These connections provide essential support in areas such as medical care, housing, and employment opportunities.
DeMont emphasized that “Citizen Advocacy proves that ordinary people can make extraordinary differences, one relationship at a time.”
Success Stories Highlight Community Impact
One notable partnership formed through Citizen Advocacy is between Joe Robins and Nick Sproll, both from Chester County. Their friendship blossomed through shared activities like mini-golf and ice cream outings. After expressing a desire for more meaningful engagement, they began delivering food through PACS (Phoenixville Area Community Service), which inspired them to create a nonprofit to support local organizations. Their initiative has recently been recognized by the 100 Men of Phoenixville.
DeMont anticipates over 200 participants in this year’s run, with an additional informal kids’ fun run planned. “We expect over 80 volunteers to keep the runners safe on the courses,” she added. The Phoenixville Run promises to be a fun, family-friendly event for all, encouraging community engagement.
Even for those who do not participate in the run, the event offers a unique opportunity to cheer on runners, meet Mayor Peter Urscheler, and explore offerings from local vendors. “Come see why Phoenixville is such a vibrant community — all while supporting the important mission of Citizen Advocacy,” DeMont encouraged.
For more information and to register, visit www.runsignup.com/Race/PA/Phoenixville/PhoenixvilleRun.