Callen-Lorde’s 2025 Rainbow Run was a smashing success

Callen-Lorde’s 10th annual Rainbow Run broke records all in support of LGBTQ+ health—and we couldn’t have done it without you!

The day began bright and early at Pier 45 downtown, where staff and volunteers gathered to set up the rainbow arch finish line, check-in + sponsor tables, and Callen-Lorde merch area. We were prepared for rain, but the day couldn’t have been warmer or brighter. A cloudless sky was the perfect backdrop for a fun and inspiring run.

After checking in, runners, walkers and strollers grabbed Starbucks coffee, water and granola bars from Trader Joes, played with our parachutes and got psyched thanks to Taleek Norman–aka Coach T–from Equity Design. Jennifer Crumpton and Tovah Robinson from Kula for Karma led a mindfulness warmup to help everyone feel grounded. Patrick McGovern, April Griswold and Donnie Roberts gave speeches that reminded participants of the importance of their support, which is now more vital than ever. Finally, everyone jumped into action at 10am!

Volunteers cheered runners on at the finish line and supporters gathered around Hudson River Park to celebrate family and friends. Multiple staff raced alongside participants.

After crossing the finish line participants were able to take home merch they earned based on fundraising benchmarks. The energy was sky high before, during and after the race, illustrating the Callen-Lorde community’s relentless ability to be positive and come together even amid threats.

In total we raised more than $140,000, our most successful Rainbow Run ever, with individual teams raising as much as $12,000. It was clear that our community is committed to supporting us as we support those we serve.

This event wouldn’t have been such a success without staff and volunteers. To everyone who helped make this day such a blast: thank you! We couldn’t have done it without you. Rainbow Run 2025 was a fantastic kickoff for our summer events season, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.