RVA Steps Up for Climate Action: CCAN’s First 5K for the Planet Energizes People-Powered Movement
Families, friends, and activists ran and walked at Bryan Park to raise awareness and funds for regional environmental resilience and justice
RICHMOND, VA – On Sunday, April 27, the Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) celebrated its first 5K For the Planet. This event brought together over 70 participants in a vibrant display of community commitment to environmental stewardship and climate action. Runners, walkers, and supporters gathered at Bryan Park to take part in the 5K run/walk, raising awareness and funds for critical environmental initiatives.
The day’s festivities featured an educational area, where participants discovered ways to get involved in climate advocacy in their communities. Attendees dove into local environmental issues, learned how to push back against polluting projects, and connected with neighbors equally passionate about clean energy and climate justice. Richmond’s local favorite, Nate’s Bagels, provided free breakfast and refreshments for participants.
“We were thrilled to see such strong community support at our first 5K for the Planet,” said Victoria Higgins, CCAN Virginia Director. “Richmond faces real environmental challenges – from polluted waterways to urban heat islands – but progress is made possible when we come together. Richmonders are in the fight for a healthier, more sustainable future.”
In light of recent setbacks in federal environmental protections, local groups and concerned Richmond residents are eager to come together and take action. Many participants voiced support for these ongoing efforts, especially as local and state leaders have stepped up to address critical issues like climate resilience, clean water, and environmental justice.
“Global solutions depend on local action. Every step we took today was a stride forward towards saving our planet,” said Courtney Dyson, CCAN’s Fundraising Director. “We’re proud to join the Richmond community in supporting local climate action, and we appreciate today’s participants for supporting CCAN’s grassroots campaigns in Virginia and beyond.”
Proceeds from the event will support CCAN’s ongoing projects focused on climate education and community resilience. The momentum from this first 5K will continue to drive meaningful change across the Chesapeake region and beyond.
Organizational sponsors for CCAN’s 5K For The Planet included: Counterspark, Chesapeake Solar and Storage Association, Ecomaids, Edward Jones Investment, and the Sierra Club Virginia Chapter.
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Chesapeake Climate Action Network is the first grassroots organization dedicated exclusively to raising awareness about the impacts and solutions associated with global warming in the Chesapeake Bay region. Founded in 2002, CCAN has been at the center of the fight for clean energy and wise climate policy in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC.