Franciscan Rhythms Trail 5K Run & Walk 2026 — Lowell, MI

The 12th annual Franciscan Rhythms 5K Trail Run & Walk benefiting our music therapy program and land restoration efforts will take place Saturday, October. 3, 2026. The all-ages and all-fitness levels 5K will give participants an opportunity to “Run with Nuns” and experience a variety of restorative projects on a scenic path through our Lowell campus, 11650 Downes St. NE. Medals will be awarded to the Overall 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place male and female finishers, recognizing the top performances of the race. Lace up, race hard, and compete for your spot on the podium! 🏅🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ As race participants enjoy the course, they will be surrounded by deciduous woodland, pine forest and a restored prairie that contains all native plants. Visitors have spotted many beautiful birds, insects and woodland animals on the land – even an adventurous beaver! A variety of live music stations featuring Irish, rock and folk music will be spread out along the trail route to motivate and inspire participants. Learn more about the Franciscan Life Process Center at LifeProcessCenter.org . Race schedule - Recommended arrival time is 8:30 a.m. for registration. - A short fun run for children will start at 9 a.m. - The 5K run & walk will start at 9:15 a.m. - After the race, there will be water and snacks, including the Sisters’ homemade cinnamon rolls. - The event will conclude at noon. Registration information The 5K run & walk registration is $35 and the kids’ race is $15 online until 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3. Same-day registration will be offered on-site from 7:45-8:45 a.m. for $40. Register by Wednesday, September 16, 2026, to guarantee a race t-shirt. A virtual option is also available for individuals who cannot attend on Oct. 3 but still want to run or walk the route another time and support the cause. Fundraising goals Our goal is to raise $40,000 to support our music therapy scholarship fund, which helps cover the cost of services for families and individuals when medical insurance will not. Funds will also help the continued stewardship of our Lowell campus, a beautiful space where our clients can grow and heal. Help us reach our fundraising goal by making a donation online . You can also support our efforts by preordering fresh, homemade bread baked by the Franciscan Sisters and volunteers. Choose from whole wheat, oatmeal or dilly casserole bread for $10 per loaf. Orders can be picked up at our Lowell Campus. Place your order by visiting our online store . Sponsorship opportunities As a sponsor, you'll help cover the cost of music therapy session for individuals and families, which are rarely covered by medical insurance but have a profound impact on mental, emotional and physical well-being. Our board-certified music therapist serve around 300 clients each week , helping them meet goals like reducing anxiety, aiding speech development, improving coordination and strengthening relationships. We are honored to work with individuals of all ages. Your sponsorship also supports the continued stewardship of our 230-acre Lowell campus, a beautiful space where our clients can grow and heal. Funds help us removed invasive species, care for our pollinator honeybees and maintain the ecosystem of the farmland. Being good stewards of God's creation is an essential part of our mission. Click here Volunteer opportunities We’re seeking volunteers to help us prepare for the race, assist with day-of setup and support cleanup efforts. View the volunteer opportunities and sign up online . Tag us on social media Share your photos from the event on social media with the hashtag #RunWithNuns and tag the Center on Facebook @FranciscanCenter and Instagram @FranciscanLifeProcessCenter . FAQs How do I become a sponsor? Click the link, sponsorship packet complete the form and email it to skoteskey@lifeprocesscenter.org . Can you register on the day of the race? Yes, you can register in person from 7:45 to 8:45 a.m. The late registration fee is $40. Is there a map of the trail? Yes, please view the race map here . Printed maps will also be provided at the race. Is the trail paved? No, most of the trail is unpaved, winding through wooded areas, fields and our prairie. Are strollers and dogs allowed on the trail? No, strollers and dogs are not allowed. How can I purchase bread? Visit our online store to purchase bread online then pick it up at the race.