First-ever Arizona Foster Family 5K Celebration held at Kiwanis Park

Kiwanis Park in Tempe was brimming with enthusiasm on Sunday, Nov. 24, as the Arizona Foster Family 5K Celebration, organized by AZ Kids Consortium, drew hundreds of participants in its first year. 

The sold-out event brought together foster and adoptive families, advocates and supporters to honor the strength of Arizona’s foster care community while shedding light on the growing need for foster families. 

Proceeds from the event will directly support initiatives benefiting Arizona’s foster youth, a group that numbers nearly 8,000 children. With only around 2,000 licensed foster families statewide, the gap between need and resources remains critical. 

“I’ve always felt called to foster,” Hope Kopp, an event participant who has fostered 37 children and adopted four over nearly two decades, said. “I wanted to open my home and provide a safe place for them.” 

More than just a fundraiser, the 5K served as a platform to celebrate the foster community and the transformative role of organizations like the Arizona Department of Child Safety.

The agency works tirelessly to place children in stable, nurturing homes, striving to reunify families whenever possible. For children unable to return to their biological families, DCS works to find permanent, loving adoptive homes. 

“Seeing so many families and individuals unite for a cause this important is truly inspiring,” said Tanya Abdellatif, assistant director of foster care and post-permanency supports at DCS. “It’s a reminder that fostering and adoption are community efforts, and events like this can spark action and hope.” 

The day offered activities for all ages, including the 5K run/walk, live entertainment and chances to connect with organizations such as AZ Kids Consortium, The Foster Alliance and the DCS team. 

For more, visit DCS.AZ.gov/Foster.