We started off as just an idea. Our founder, Juan Ortega, wanted to find a way to honor our fallen first responders in a big way—that’s where the 5k came in. Familiar with the racing scene through his triathlon team, Tri-Builders, Mr. Ortega figured a 5k would bring the community out to run for a cause bigger than all of us.

The first Garfield Ridge Stars and Stripes 5k was in June of 2018 with about 300 runners. Since our latest race, we have grown to over 800 runners, participants, and volunteers and have fundraised $10,000 for the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation in June of 2025.

The Garfield Ridge Stars and Stripes 5k is a community organization/event founded to raise funds for fallen first responders and military personnel while in the line of duty.

It is our mission to give back to our fallen brothers and sisters while bringing our community together to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for us.