Hitting the Roads for a Good Cause
By Christian Warren Freed
Ah, fall. That special time of year when the weather might (or might not) break to cooler temperatures. Pumpkin spice is everywhere and the streets become filled with the sounds of thousands of sneakers hitting the pavement as countless runners participate in a wealth of 5K and longer races. This year, on Saturday, October 3, the Woodcreek neighborhood, bordering Holly Springs and Apex, is holding its third annual Woodcreek Cares 5K. Every year, the race supports the local community by featuring a different charity. This year’s beneficiary organization is the STXBP1 Foundation.
In 2025, nearly 200 people of all ages participated in the morning events, including a one-mile fun run and the actual 5K, in support of Be the Rainbow. Starting and finishing at the Woodcreek Clubhouse as in previous years, runners will weave a course through the neighborhood and onto the scenic Middle Creek Greenway. Whether you opt for a brisk walk or a run, no experience is needed. This event is perfect for the novice as well as those who are experienced runners. After crossing the finish line and cooling down, runners can relax and take in the lively post-race atmosphere. Last year, area businesses and sponsors set up tables to showcase their products and services, and local grocery stores generously provided water, bananas, and snacks to help participants refuel.
The Woodcreek Cares 5K was first conceptualized by Jessica Shaffer and Andrea Jeske. Both women are accomplished ultramarathon runners and thought having a run closer to home where the community can come together was the perfect fit for Woodcreek. Through a local connection, they were introduced to the third member of their triumvirate — Colin McGowan. Colin was already an experienced runner and jumped at the opportunity to give back.
Together, the three organizers brought their idea to life, creating a race that from the beginning combined a fun, community atmosphere with a commitment to giving back. Their shared passion for running and charitable causes quickly resonated throughout Woodcreek. Unsure at first how the idea would be received, they reached out through the neighborhood’s online community forum and were met with an overwhelmingly positive response. That early momentum carried forward through the dedication of volunteers like Holly Absher, whose deep involvement and strong ties within Woodcreek have been instrumental in the event’s growth. Behind the scenes, countless Woodcreek residents have played an essential role in helping the race grow and succeed each year.
Now in its third year, Woodcreek Cares has expanded its reach across southern Wake County, strengthening community connections, supporting local businesses, and more than doubling its charitable impact. “It’s been incredibly inspiring to watch this event evolve from a simple idea into a powerful tradition, one that continues bringing people together, expanding impact, and making a real difference in the lives of others,” Andrea says.
In its first year, the race culminated in $5,000 being donated to Duke Children’s Hospital, and organizers have continued the tradition of supporting a different local charity each year. The event raised $11,000 for the Be the Rainbow Foundation in 2025, and this year the goal is to surpass that total in support of the STXBP1 Foundation.
What are these two foundations, you might be asking? Let’s dive in. Both are outstanding and worthy of support, and each is dedicated to helping children and their families. Be the Rainbow supports pediatric cancer patients. The STXBP1 Foundation involves a rare form of epilepsy.
Be the Rainbow Foundation
This local foundation, founded by Jennifer and Bryan Reynolds, is dedicated to helping families dealing with pediatric cancer. According to their website: “[The foundation] offers direct support to families and partners with established family support organizations in order to provide any assistance, alleviating the financial and emotional burdens a family facing pediatric cancer may be experiencing. We individualize and customize any assistance that we are able to provide. We partner with family support services, social workers, hospital child life, and other organizations to identify ways we can help.”
The foundation’s core areas of focus are direct family support, partnerships with existing organizations, fundraising to support childhood cancer programs, and raising awareness and family advocacy. They hold several events and fundraisers throughout the year and continue making a positive impact in the area for families going through one of life’s most traumatic experiences.
Over 15,000 children in the United States are diagnosed with cancer each year according to the American Childhood Cancer Organization. Jennifer and Bryan know this trauma firsthand and continue doing their part to not only support their own daughter but numerous local families dealing with pediatric cancer.
STXBP1 Disorders Foundation
The STXBP1 Foundation serves local, national, and international families of children who suffer from rare neurodevelopmental conditions and genetic epilepsy. Created by parents, the foundation focuses on advocacy, driving research, and providing families and physicians with resources and valuable information.
STXBP1 is the fifth most common diagnosis in patients referred for genetic testing for epilepsy. Heather Jones, foundation treasurer and Woodcreek resident, has personally seen the outpouring of support. Through building an informed and compassionate community, she strives to make a positive difference for her son and every other child diagnosed with this disorder.
“The support and encouragement we receive from our neighbors and local community is incredibly meaningful, and this event is a way to strengthen those connections while supporting organizations dedicated to improving the lives of affected children and families,” Heather says. “Events like this race also help bring neighbors together around a cause that directly impacts members of our own community.”
As participation in the Woodcreek Cares 5K continues to grow, along with sponsorships and community-centered activities, the event is raising awareness and generating even greater support each year. “When I started thinking about putting this race together, it was really important to me that local businesses were part of it and that every race fee collected went directly to the cause,” Jessica said. “The community has shown up in such a generous way.”
“Ultimately, the race has become a bridge between the community and the charities, turning local support into meaningful, tangible impact,” Andrea added. “It is not just about one day; it is about building momentum that continues to benefit others throughout the year.”
When it is hard to choose where your time or support will have the greatest impact, the Woodcreek Cares 5K is a simple way to get involved and give back. “Starting a charitable community event like this allows us to show kids throughout the neighborhood and beyond the importance of helping others,” Colin said.
On October 3, lace up your running shoes and head to Woodcreek for a morning of movement, community, and purpose, all in support of this year’s featured charity — the STXBP1 Foundation. See you at the starting line!
To sign up for the Woodcreek Cares 5K, please follow the instructions at runsignup.com/Race/NC/Apex/WoodcreekCaresCharity5kFunRun. For more information about Be the Rainbow and the STXBP1 Foundation, visit betherainbow.org and stxbp1disorders.org.
