On Saturday, April 25, hundreds of runners, walkers, families, and supporters gathered once again at the Clipper Pavilion in West Orange for The Arc of Essex County’s 28th Annual Building Tomorrows 5K Run, Family Walk, and Fun Fest. With energy high and community spirit on full display, the event brought people together to raise critical funds for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Essex County, while also offering a morning filled with fitness and fun.
The 5K race kicked off the day with a strong field of competitors navigating the scenic course around the South Mountain Recreation Complex. Leading the pack in the male division was Joseph Marsico, who crossed the finish line at 20:34, followed by Durral Pinto in second place at 21:03 and Nate Murphy in third at 21:06. In the female division, top finishers delivered equally strong performances, with Charlie Sklow finishing first at 23:13, Jacqueline Wolfstirn coming in second at 23:25, and Ashleigh Rennar finishing third with a time of 25:21.
Following the race, participants of all ages took part in the family walk, which traced the same picturesque route around the reservoir. The walk continues to serve as the heart of the event’s fundraising efforts, bringing together Arc participants, families, staff, and supporters. This year’s fundraising momentum was especially strong, and a special shout out our top teams:
Top Overall Teams:
1) Smart Set
2) Team Brian Strong
3) Team D’Uva
Top Student Champion Teams:
1) Ylliona’s Team
2) All Are Welcome
3) Limitless Network
A special thanks to the 2026 Student Champions, which included Ambrose, Anna, Elliot, Franklin, Joe, Jordan, Juan, Justin, Kyle, Layla, Moyin, Rishitha, Sofia, Ylliona, and returning Student Champion Mentors Alice, Annabelle, Augie, Isabella, Jena, Katherine, Lucy, Molly, and Penelope.
The Fun Fest once again transformed the pavilion into a lively hub of activity. Families enjoyed hands-on experiences ranging from arts and crafts to interactive entertainment, while music filled the air and friends reconnected throughout the morning. Children and adults alike took part in creative activities, games, and dancing, reinforcing the inclusive and joyful spirit that defines the Building Tomorrows event year after year.
The Arc of Essex County extends its sincere gratitude to the generous sponsors who made this year’s Building Tomorrows event possible. Special thanks go to our Platinum Sponsor, PSEG, for their continued leadership and support. We also recognize our Gold Sponsors—Bogush Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling and Titan Management Group—for their strong commitment to our mission, as well as all the sponsors who made the day so successful for The Arc.
Sincere appreciation goes out to Essex County leadership and the many volunteers who helped ensure a safe and seamless experience for all. Most importantly, The Arc thanks the hundreds of participants whose enthusiasm and generosity continue to fuel programs and services that empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live fuller, more independent lives.
To learn more about the event, visit RunOrWalk.org.