Catherine Violet Hubbard (CVH) Animal Sanctuary will host the 5th Annual Race For Catherine, both in-person at Fairfield Hills and virtually, October 10-12. The in-person race is Sunday, October 12 — Kids Kindness Dash at 8:15 am and 5K at 9 am. The event raises funds for the sanctuary’s year-round programs that connect people with animals and nature, and foster human empathy in people of all ages.

Created in honor of Catherine Violet Hubbard, a 6-year-old animal lover killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary tragedy, the event has grown into a powerful symbol of resilience and hope. Last year’s event drew 535 participants from 20 states, and this year promises to be even bigger, race officials anticipate as runners, walkers, families, and teams lace up for the 5K for Kindness.

“This fifth year is incredibly special,” said Jenny Hubbard, Catherine’s mother and president of CVH Animal Sanctuary. “Each person who joins honors Catherine’s love of animals and unites us in remembrance, while also fueling the sanctuary’s work carried out in her honor. For that, I am profoundly grateful.”

This year’s Race for Catherine will feature family-friendly activities and powerful visuals for the community and media alike, including: Adoptable animals and wildlife ambassadors including a rescued greyhound and a tegu; a Kids Kindness Dash for children ages 3-9; Finisher prizes, collectible swag, and free breakfast; opportunities to engage with animal rescue partners and sanctuary initiatives; and a US Track and Field Certified and Timed Course in scenic Newtown.

This year’s presenting sponsor is Fraser Woods Montessori (FWM) School in Newtown, a community deeply aligned with the values at the heart of the event. “Supporting the Race for Catherine allows the entire FWM community to champion the values we embrace daily — compassion, kindness, and responsibility to the world around us,” said Head of School David Newman. “The sanctuary’s work in promoting compassion and acceptance creates the kind of world we want our students to inherit and help build. Catherine’s story is a reminder that no matter how old we are, we have the ability to inspire profound change through simple acts of caring.”

Whether racing to qualify or strolling with friends, participants help fund year-round programming that connects people with animals, nature, and compassionate action.

Registration is open at cvhfoundation.org, where you can also learn more about Catherine’s story and the sanctuary’s mission.

Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary is nestled in the very heart of Newtown, spread over 34 acres of pristine farmland, breathtaking woodlands, and rolling meadows. Visitors are welcome to explore the extensive hiking and equestrian trails, savor the 90,000 square foot pollinator habitat, or have a quiet picnic at the pavilion. The sanctuary property is located at 8 Commerce Road in Newtown and is open to the public from dawn until dusk.

Through educational curriculum and community workshops, and a commitment to land stewardship and conservation, the sanctuary continues to make remarkable strides to keep animals free from harm in homes and native habitats. In addition, the sanctuary’s groundbreaking Senior Paw Project supports hundreds of senior pet owners residing in affordable and municipal housing communities throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts. From the sanctuary’s little lending library to goat yoga and llama hikes, to free and low-cost educational programs for families and children, it’s a destination for all.