As America prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, BAPS Charities hosted the 2026 Spirit of Service Walk-Run, uniting more than 50,000 participants across over 100 cities in the United States and Canada in support of local nonprofit organizations. The nationwide initiative helped launch the America250 celebrations by putting community service and civic pride into action.
On May 30, 2026, BAPS Charities Walk-Run in Ashburn, VA, brought together nearly 425 participants for a day dedicated to service, health, and community engagement. The event encouraged individuals and families to come together in support of Mobile Hope of Loudon County which supports homeless youths providing food, shelter, and other resources to help youths become self-sufficient.
Participants of all ages took part in the walk-run, reflecting the community’s shared commitment to service and giving back. The event also welcomed US Senator Mark Warner, VA State Senator Kannan Srinivasan, VA Delegate JJ Singh, Mobile Home Founder and CEO Donna Fortier, Mobile Hope Director of Operations Joe Cadarette and Loudoun County Treasure Henry Eickleberg who participated alongside volunteers and supporters to show their solidarity for the cause. Senator Mark Warner took time from his busy schedule to attend the walkathon. In sharing his thoughts on the event and what it signifies about America, he shared, “I hope we took enough videos of all the young people singing the national anthem, I would like to show that video to all the people I work with in the United States Senate. That would show the incredible spirit of America. It is a remarkable time, I think about the BAPS community that has five of these walkathons going on across Virginia with theme of “In the Joy of Others, we find our own.” This is the new face of Virginia; this is who we are as Americans.” CEO & Founder of Mobile Hope Donna Fortier, in sharing her appreciation for the efforts and fund raised by BAPS Charities shared, “This is the second year we have been honored as a beneficiary, and we couldn’t do all that we do without your support and we truly appreciate it.”
Through more than 1,200 walkathons organized over the past two decades, BAPS Charities has supported meaningful causes while fostering unity, compassion, and well-being in communities. As America250 approaches, the BAPS Charities Walk-Run demonstrates how volunteerism and civic engagement can bring communities together and inspire future generations.
