Erik Hite Foundation
May 2, 2026
The Erik Hite Foundation’s 15th Annual Community Festival of Service +
Glow for Heroes 5K & 2-Mile Walk brought the Southern Arizona community together
for an unforgettable evening focused on wellness, remembrance, & connection. Held on
May 2, 2026, this year marked the event’s first-ever evening format, which proved to be
the perfect addition as participants and attendees gathered under the lights in their
brightest neon to glow for our heroes.
The glow-themed event welcomed 174 runners and walkers, along with a
number of additional community members who attended the FREE Community Festival
throughout the evening. Guests enjoyed live entertainment, family-friendly activities,
food vendors, raffles, a Kids Zone, and a Community Vehicle Showcase featuring 26
vehicles from local departments and organizations. The festival also featured 17 vendors
and community partners helping create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for attendees
of all ages.
This year’s memorial tribute expanded to also honor fallen firefighters,
continuing the event’s mission of remembering and recognizing the sacrifices made by
public safety heroes in our communities.
One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was the luminaria
ceremony, where attendees gathered together at sunset to decorate and place luminarias
in honor of fallen heroes, loved ones, friends, and family members who have passed. The
glowing memorial garden created a powerful and emotional moment of reflection, unity,
and remembrance for the entire community.
Thanks to the incredible support of participants, sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and
community partners, this year’s event raised over $15,000 to help support Erik Hite
Foundation programs and services benefiting Southern Arizona public safety personnel,
active military members, and their families
