Saturday, June 21, 2025
Baldwin Park will once again come alive with cheers, community spirit and pounding footsteps as the 18th Annual 5K AIDS & Cancer Run/Walk returns on June 1.
Organized by the Richard M. Brodsky Foundation, the event begins at 9 a.m. and aims to raise awareness and funds for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS and cancer. The long-running tradition invites runners and walkers of all ages to support a meaningful cause while fostering connection and philanthropy.
The day kicks off with a free Toddlers Run for children under 4 at 8:30 a.m. The main 5K race follows at 9 a.m., with professional timing by Elitefeats and live results available via text and email.
Registration begins at $26. The first 100 participants living with HIV, cancer, or who are veterans can register for free. All registrants will receive a dry-fit event T-shirt.
“I love the diversity of the community,” Richard Brodsky, founder of the foundation said. “People are very nice, and we have a lot of local sponsors that support what we are doing.”
Brodsky, a former architect, was diagnosed as HIV-positive in 1997 at age 45. In 2002, he was diagnosed with brain cancer, unrelated to his HIV. After completing treatment, he ran the New York City Marathon in 2003, an experience that inspired him to dedicate his life to helping others without access to medical care.
He founded the Richard M. Brodsky Foundation in 2004 to raise money for a cure or vaccine for AIDS. Over the years, the organization has also provided food, shelter, medical care and shoes for orphans in Kenya.
Sean Gleason, vice president of the Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, met Brodsky at a chamber meeting in 2022 and has supported the event ever since.
“I’m an on-and-off kind of runner,” Gleason said. “I ran in high school and for exercise, but wasn’t a racer. I saw this as a great opportunity to get involved in the community.”
Whether running, jogging or walking, Gleason said the event is about more than just the race.
“It’s really about supporting the cause and responding to the outcry and outpouring of help,” he said. “That’s why we’re there.”
Gleason added that Brodsky’s passion is evident.
“It’s his passion,” he said. “I can see it in how he operates and carries himself.”
Brodsky agreed.
“Having people support us is like my spinach if I were Popeye,” he said. “It makes me feel good being able to support these causes.”
To register or donate, visit 5kaidscancer.org.
