The 24th Annual Head for the Cure 5K drew a record-breaking crowd to Corporate Woods in Overland Park on Aug. 23, continuing the Overland Park-based foundation's run as Kansas City's largest charitable 5K.
The event was expected to draw approximately 6,000 participants to the shaded course winding through the Corporate Woods business park at 9401 Indian Creek Pkwy, FOX4 News Kansas City reported on X. The race typically raises more than $700,000 for the local brain tumor community, according to race tracking site Ski-Nordique, though the foundation has not yet confirmed a final 2026 total.
It was the event's 24th year.
The morning began at 8 a.m. with a 5K run/walk, a Kid's Fun Run and on-course recognitions honoring brain tumor survivors, caregivers and healthcare workers. The foundation uses four recognition categories at its events: Keeping the Faith, Legacy of Love, Healthcare Heroes and Memorials.
Proceeds from the Kansas City race benefit the University of Kansas Cancer Center, Saint Luke's Marion Bloch Neuroscience Institute, Children's Mercy Kansas City, the Children's Brain Tumor Project, Solace House and Head for the Cure's Path to Hope program, according to the event page.
Head for the Cure was founded in 2003 and is headquartered in Overland Park. Since its founding, more than 250,000 people have participated in the organization's events nationwide, raising $30 million for brain cancer research and patient support.
Residents who missed Sunday's race can still support the cause through upcoming Kansas City-area giveback fundraisers:
- Tuesday, Aug. 25 — Tropical Smoothie Cafe Giveback, 5 p.m.
- Thursday, Aug. 27 — MOD Pizza Giveback, 10 a.m.
- Monday, Aug. 31 — Old Shawnee Pizza Giveback Fundraiser, 4 p.m.
Details on locations and participation are available at headforthecure.org/events.
