Harmonizing Wellness and Community: The Kentlands / Lakelands 5K Tradition

The Kentlands/Lakelands 5K, celebrating its 30th Anniversary this year, is a Kentlands Community Foundation tradition that brings families and friends together, showcasing the harmony of fitness, community, and partnership. As a second-year platinum sponsor, The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center is proud to support this fundraising opportunity.

“This is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of community spirit,” states Jennifer Pastora, General Manager of The Carnegie. “Building a sense of community and friendship is so important to us, in and around our community. This is a foundational point to our Art of Living Well philosophy, which encompasses nine dimensions of wellness. From artistic expression, intellectual engagement, social connectivity or a sense of purpose, the gamut of programming is incredibly expansive, and this race is just one way to highlight our holistic view of wellness.”

Every year, residents and visitors of all ages gather to participate in this event, showcasing a range of running enthusiasts, walkers, and even furry companions. The family-friendly event supports the essence of Kentlands – to serve as an educational resource, to build community by supporting local arts and cultural programs, and to provide opportunities for volunteerism and community outreach.

The 5K course winds through the beautiful Lakelands and Kentlands neighborhoods before heading down Main Street to the finish line. The neighborhoods, known for their picturesque streets, diverse architecture, and sense of community, become a living canvas during the race, with local bands set up along the course making for a fun and lively environment.

This event collaborates with local charities and organizations to make a positive impact on the community. Every year, Kentlands donates 50 percent of the proceeds to local charities, including the Maryland Senior Olympics; the Dolores C. Swoyer Scholarship Fund, which provides sponsorship for low-income families’ children to attend the local city-led summer camp; The Dwelling Place, which combats homelessness in the area; and Mercy Health Clinic, which provides medical care to the uninsured and the underinsured.

As September 2nd approaches, anticipation builds. Runners lace up their sneakers, volunteers prepare to make the event a success, and The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center stands proudly as a platinum sponsor for the second year running. It’s an opportunity to show support for the Gaithersburg community and to celebrate the shared values that bind us all. You can still register to walk, run or volunteer at the race to join in on all of the fun!

The choice of The Carnegie as a platinum sponsor wasn’t just coincidental – it’s a partnership rooted in shared values. “This event is special because it brings people of all ages together, provides an opportunity for people of all ages to participate and experience one of Gaithersburg’s most beloved neighborhoods, and give back to the community at the same time.” explained Sam Martin, Senior Business Development Director at The Carnegie. “We chose the Kentlands/Lakelands 5K for many reasons, one of which being the sense of community it brings.” By aligning their support with this event, The Carnegie showcases its dedication to creating spaces that promote unity and the overall well-being of its residents and the community.

Above all, the Kentlands/Lakelands 5K is a reminder that when businesses and communities come together, they can create something truly special – a tapestry of unity, wellness, and boundless potential.

While The Carnegie will have a booth at the Kentlands/Lakelands 5k on Saturday, September 2nd to provide more information about its Summer 2024 opening, the community’s Discovery Center is open to the public daily in Downtown Crown, providing tours of its two-bedroom model residence. For more information on the Kentlands/Lakelands 5k and how to get involved, click here.