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 June 6, 2026, the BAPS Charities Walk-Run in Hopkinton, MA, brought together nearly 450 participants for a day dedicated to service, health, and community engagement. The event encouraged individuals and families to come together in support of Westborough Food Pantry, helping raise awareness for the growing need for food assistance in Westborough, where the local Food Pantry now serves over 450 residents each week – a 70% increase since 2022 – relying entirely on volunteers and community donations to distribute more than 280 tons of food every year.
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 Representative Kate Donaghue (MA-19th Worcester District), who participated alongside volunteers and supporters to show their solidarity for the cause. Reflecting on the impact of the event, Paul Luippold of Westborough Food Pantry shared, “In an average week we feed 170 families, close to 500 people, and if you add that up that’s close to 23,000 people that get food from the food pantry. Feeding this number of people requires a lot of food, we send about 10,000 lbs of food each week and it takes groups like this BAPS Charities to make it possible for us. We are so lucky we have community support from groups like yours and can’t thank you enough for your help. I 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.
