On June 6, 2026, NextGen United hosted their very first community impact project: the Summer Sun & Racing Fun 5K sponsored by Novant Health!
NextGen United spent this last year learning about the needs of our community from Lincoln County leaders, focusing on social responsibility and civic engagement. As they learned, they began planning their first community project, the Summer Sun & Racing Fun 5K. This event raised money for UWLC's Community Fund, supporting our neighbors in need during one-time hardships, critical programs across the county, and much more!
With 100 participants, the Summer Sun & Racing Fun 5K was a hit with the community, bringing runners from all over the state to our wonderful town! The race began at Betty Ross Park and followed the Rail Trail through town and back.
Congratulations to the Summer 5K winners:
Overall winners Taylor Adams and Brynn Florezyk
Age group winners 1-13 Aubrey Florezyk and Julian Martinez
Age group winners 14-19 Caroline Glavan and Caleb Kester
Age group winners 20-29 Cynthia Torres and Anthony Abonza
Age group winners 30-39 Christine Anderson and Alexander Marieb
Age group winners 40-49 Allyson Heafner and Paul Martinez
Age group winners 50-59 Rebecca Glavan and Froilan Frutos
Age group winner 60-69 Nancy Anderson
This event was only possible thanks to sponsorship and support from Novant Health and the Lincolnton Tourism Development Authority. Additionally, United Way of Lincoln County would like to thank the City of Lincolnton for allowing the use of the Rail Trail, as well as Sunset Slush of Lincolnton for keeping the race participants cool in the summer heat.
NextGen United is so grateful for everyone’s support and is already looking forward to next year’s project!