2024 5K News
Despite a tornado warning, a daylight saving time change and intermittent showers, more than 50 participants enjoyed a Fun Run and 5K event hosted by Mita’s Foundation and Casa de La Cultura on Nov. 3, 2024, during the Day of the Dead weekend, at LaFortune Park on 51st and Yale.
“Even though there were trees down and it looked dangerous, the rain paused just in time and only started again after we finished giving out the awards,” said Tina Peña, president/CEO of Mita’s Foundation. “But it was wonderful seeing our participants in a festive mood and great spirits enjoying themselves at our 5K event this year.”
2024 WINNERS
“DJ Sonido Rock Ztar (Javier Alducin) brought the beats for our event, even after hunkering down at 4 a.m. due to the tornado warning,” Peña added. “Not only did he step up to provide the music, but he also signed up to run—and guess what? He took home 1st place! Huge thanks, Javier, and congratulations on the big win!”
- 1st Place
Male: Javier Alducin
Female: Melinda Wood - 2nd Place
Male: Omar Arreaga
Female: Ella Franks - 3rd Place
Male: Victor Armas
Female: Mary Westbrook - 1st Place (Group)
Latin Diversity Network – American Airlines
PARTICIPANTS
There were four virtual participants from Bartlesville, Hawaii and Nevada. The ages ranged from 7 – 70.
- Male Participants: 14
- Female Participants: 37
- Children/Students:14
SPONSORS
Mita’s Foundation and Casa de La Cultura are grateful to the sponsors who made the 2024 5K event possible:
- Betsy Lewallen, Realtor
- Latin Diversity Network – American Airlines
- Regent Bank
- Rivas & Associates
- Romero’s Auto Center
PROCEEDS FOR PERUVIAN CHILDREN AND HISPANIC ARTISTS
Peña thanked the volunteers, 5K participants and sponsors for their efforts in supporting the mission of Mita’s Foundation and Casa de la Cultura.
“Everyone’s involvement in our 5K event has helped us continue our mission to provide charitable relief and improve the quality of life for the impoverished and underprivileged children and their families in Peru through initiatives and programs like our clinic, schools, soup kitchen, pre-fab homes, humanitarian aid and much more,” she said.
Moreover, proceeds from the 5K also supported Casa de la Cultura’s mission to foster the growth and promotion of Latino/Hispanic arts in the local region by encouraging Hispanic artists to grow, showcase and promote their artistic skills.
PHOTOS AND VIDEO CLIPS (By Bill Loyd)
“We hope to host another 5K event next year!” Peña said. “See how much fun we had this year in our photo and video gallery. We invite everyone to join us again in 2025 for another Fun Run and festive celebration and take literal steps to help make a positive impact in our communities!”
See more photos and video clips from our 2024 5K event at:
https://lightroom.adobe.com/shares/f30e0562289d41f598e35203e395d3e3
Mita's Foundation 