York County SPCA Holds 5K Run/Walk for 100th Anniversary

Fundraiser celebrates a century of animal welfare work in the community.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 11:11pm

The York County SPCA hosted its first-ever 5K run/walk event, attracting around 200 runners and over 60 dogs. The race took place on a portion of the Heritage Rail Trail County Park, followed by an awards ceremony and post-race party at WellSpan Park. The event served as both a fundraiser and a celebration of the SPCA's 100-year anniversary, with proceeds going towards the organization's ongoing animal welfare efforts.

Why it matters

The 5K run/walk is an important community event that helps raise awareness and funds for the York County SPCA, which has provided animal rescue, adoption, and other vital services for the past century. As a non-profit organization, the SPCA relies on public support to continue its mission of caring for vulnerable animals in the region.

The details

The 5K course took runners and their canine companions through a portion of the Heritage Rail Trail County Park. After the race, participants gathered at WellSpan Park for an awards ceremony and post-race party. The event was organized to both celebrate the SPCA's 100-year anniversary and launch the organization's annual Give Local York fundraising campaign.

  • The 5K run/walk took place on the morning of April 4, 2026.
  • The York County SPCA is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.

The players

York County SPCA

A non-profit animal welfare organization that has provided rescue, adoption, and other services to the community for the past 100 years.

Steve Martinez

The executive director of the York County SPCA.

Kristen Dempwolf

The communications director for the York County SPCA.

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What they’re saying

“This whole 5K is about celebrating our 100 year anniversary. We're also using it to launch our Give Local York fundraising efforts as well.”

— Steve Martinez, Executive Director

“All of the great work that our staff and volunteers do every day, from adoption to bringing animals back from some really terrible situations. What we're doing here today supports that work.”

— Kristen Dempwolf, Communications Director

What’s next

Some dogs that participated in the 5K run/walk were up for adoption, and viewers can check them out on the next episode of 'Talk to the Paw' on the abc27News+ app.

The takeaway

The York County SPCA's 5K run/walk event demonstrates the organization's longstanding commitment to animal welfare and the community's support for its vital work. By hosting this celebratory fundraiser, the SPCA can continue providing essential services and finding loving homes for animals in need.