COLONIA, NJ – Team IMPACT will host its national All In 5K on Sunday, October 20. In an effort spearheaded by Daemen University Team IMPACT fellows Marina Maerkl '23, Alex Lumanog '26, Kyle Zelasko '26, and Mike Christensen '27, the East Coast Conference supports Team IMPACT in this special event.

The All In 5K brings the entire nationwide community together for a common cause - raising critical funds to reach more kids and teams who can benefit from Team IMPACT's unique program, which connects children facing serious illness and disability with a local collegiate athletic team.

“I have been a fellow for Team IMPACT for three years now, and its mission is truly indescribable," said Maerkl, who serves as the New York team lead. "Programs like Team IMPACT can, and will, change the world. The Team IMPACT curriculum is heartwarming, eye-opening, and life changing. Everyone deserves an opportunity to feel a part of a team, and the All In 5k is an example of how Team IMPACT makes everyone feel like part of a team. I am beyond grateful for Team IMPACT and the amazing people I have met through service.”

This event allows participants to "walk, run, or roll in support of Team IMPACT, from anywhere." At the cost of a $5 registration fee, one can join as an individual or find/start a team. Teams can work towards a collective fundraising goal, and everyone will be eligible for individual and/or team prizes along the way.

“Team IMPACT is special because it allows those who might not be able to participate in sports experience what it means to be on a team and the connection and friendship that comes with sports," said Christensen, a member of the Daemen men's track and field squad. 

“Team IMPACT is all about working together to make a difference," added Lumanog, a member of the Daemen men's tennis team. "It’s when our combined efforts create something bigger than any of us could achieve alone." 

The Wildcats will run a can and bottle drive in addition to the walk, which is planned to take place in Daemen's quad, Saffrin Public Square.

If interested in running/walking/rolling anywhere in the country or at one of Team IMPACT's hub locations, you can register here and start fundraising to support Team IMPACT!

For more information on Team IMPACT, please click here.