Area Agency on Aging 3 to Host “Hope in Every Step” 5K Run/Walk in Support of Elder Justice and Fall Prevention

LIMA, Ohio — Area Agency on Aging 3 will host the Hope in Every Step 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Ottawa Metro Park, 2632 Ada Road in Lima. Sponsored by Global Meals, the family-friendly event will support the Ohio Department of Aging’s 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls campaign.

Check-in and race-day registration will begin at 8 a.m. at the park’s Wyandot Shelter, with the 5K beginning at 9 a.m. The race-day registration fee is $25.

Participants are encouraged to complete the course at their own pace. The route is fully paved and includes portions that cross wooden bridges, making the event accessible to runners and walkers of varying abilities. Age-group awards, finisher medals and post-race snacks will be provided.

The Hope in Every Step 5K offers individuals and families an opportunity to enjoy physical activity together while raising awareness of falls, a serious health concern affecting many older adults.

Regular physical activity can help improve strength, balance and mobility—all important factors in reducing the risk of falls.

The event is being held in conjunction with the Ohio Department of Aging’s annual 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls campaign. The statewide initiative encourages Ohioans of all ages to walk at least one mile during September to promote active lifestyles, support healthy aging and help older adults remain engaged and connected in their communities.

“September provides us with an important opportunity to remind Ohioans about the serious impact of falls on older adults,” said Ohio Department of Aging Director Ursel J. McElroy. “Nearly one in three Ohioans will experience a fall this year, and we want the older adults in our lives to understand that risk. Part of making Ohio the best place to age in the nation is ensuring every Ohioan knows how to reduce their chances of experiencing a fall.”

In 2025, the Ohio Department of Aging recorded more than 77 million steps through participating organizations across the state. A total of 35 walking groups and 8,456 participants walked more than 30,838 miles—approximately the distance of 10 trips across the United States.

Falls are not an inevitable part of aging. Individuals can lower their risk through safe exercise, medication and health-condition reviews with a health care provider, and home safety checks to identify potential tripping hazards.

Community members are invited to join Area Agency on Aging 3 for a morning of movement, connection and fall-prevention awareness. Participants may register on race day beginning at 8 a.m. Additional event information is available through Area Agency on Aging 3 at www.aaa3.org or 419-222-7723.

Additional information about the statewide campaign and fall-prevention resources is available at www.aging.ohio.gov/10millionsteps.