On June 13, 2026, members of Albany FASCA volunteered at the 4th Annual Ronald McDonald House Albany 5K Family Fun Run. It was more than just a weekend fun run; it was an important fundraiser that helps support the local Ronald McDonald House Charities. The money raised from the event is used to help operate and maintain the programs and services that support families in need.
The Ronald McDonald House Charities is an organization that provides families with children who need lots of medical attention and need long-term treatment at the local children’s hospital with a “home away from home” that provides comfortable living, warm meals, and a supporting community that keeps families together through the child’s medical journey.
Albany FASCA members volunteered in two shifts throughout the event. The course marshals, and the teardown and cleanup crew. During the first shift, volunteers served as course marshals. Taking their place around the race course, they directed runners in the right direction, ensured safety during the race, and shouted words of encouragement to passing runners. The second shift dealt with the teardown and cleanup of the event, they closed tents, loaded up vans, and put away a large blowup sign. Students helped out in any way they could to put the area back to how it was before the event. Although the weather was hot and sunny, everyone gave their all in doing their tasks.
The event brought together many runners, families, and community members from around the Capital Region. People of all ages participated in the race, whether they were running, walking, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines. Throughout the event, volunteers had many chances to interact with participants and encourage them along the course. The positive energy from both the runners and volunteers helped create a fun and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
According to Albany FASCA Counselor Mrs. Tseng, this was the first time FASCA members volunteered at the 5K Family Fun Run. She noted that volunteering was great in general, but knowing that their hard work was helping support the families at the Ronald McDonald House made it even more meaningful. Students eagerly completed their assigned tasks, whether it was directing runners around the course or assisting with cleanup.
Many volunteers there found the event both rewarding and enjoyable. Everyone had different takeaways from this event. A FASCA member said that watching the smiles on the faces of the finishers was worth all the early wake-up and hard work of the day. Several thought about returning next year as not just a volunteer, but also a runner to bring their support for the Ronald McDonald House to the next level.
In the end, the event was a huge success. None of the runners got lost, and everything was cleaned up and packed away after the race. The organizers greatly appreciated the help provided by Albany FASCA volunteers and were impressed by how responsibly students carried out their duties. This event helped Albany FASCA members step beyond the classroom and actively participate in supporting the local community while also developing their service skills.
For many Albany FASCA members, this was their first time volunteering at a large community event like this. It gave students a chance to work with event organizers and other volunteers while learning more about the importance of community service. Many students realized that even simple tasks, such as directing runners or helping with cleanup, can make a big difference in helping an event run successfully.
This active participation in volunteer service also helped Albany FASCA build stronger connections with the local mainstream community. Through this event, Albany FASCA increased its visibility and shared its positive image with local residents and community organizations. By consistently engaging in community service, Albany FASCA continues to strengthen its reputation and establish meaningful relationships within the broader community.
Reported by Sophie Jian (Albany FASCA)
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Albany FASCA members proudly gather to support local charity and enhance mainstream visibility.
Participants and volunteers celebrate a successful day of community service at the finish line.
Albany FASCA volunteers team up to tear down and clean up after the event.
Update Date:
2026/06/16 Back