Happy 10th anniversary, College Park parkrun! This wonderful milestone celebrates a decade of running, walking, volunteering, and building friendships through a free, weekly 5K along the Paint Branch Trail.

I still remember Andrea Zukowski, and the other founders visiting community groups and civic associations, encouraging residents to join. Getting a new tradition started takes hard work and persistence. They believed in what parkrun could bring to College Park, and their dedication helped turn that vision into a lasting community gathering.

Their story offers a simple lesson: when you believe in something that can make your community better, keep going. The beginning may be challenging, but with patience, commitment, and people willing to help, something small can grow into something extraordinary.

Of course, this anniversary also belongs to the amazing volunteers who make parkrun possible each week. From welcoming newcomers and marking the course to keeping time and cheering everyone across the finish line, their efforts create an encouraging experience for all. Thank you for giving your Saturday mornings to this community.

And thank you to the runners and walkers who return Saturday after Saturday. Every participant contributes something special—whether pursuing a personal goal, walking with a neighbor, or offering encouragement to someone taking part for the first time.

Parkrun promotes health and well-being, but its greatest gift may be the sense of belonging it creates. It gives neighbors a reason to come together, learn one another’s names, and celebrate each other’s progress. As a participant myself, I am grateful to be part of it.

The College Park parkrun takes place at the Paint Branch Trail, located at 4289 Metzerott Road, College Park, MD 20740.

Additionally, please join the College Park City Council on Tuesday, October 27, at 7:30 p.m. as we continue celebrating this special an

Congratulations to the founders, volunteers, runners, and walkers who have made these ten years possible. Here’s to many more Saturdays together!