Running for a Cause: Valrico's Black Cat 5K Helps Homeless Kittens

By Ralph | Crosstown Journal | October 20, 2026

Halloween is often associated with black cats, costumes, and a little spooky fun. But this Saturday in Valrico, black cats will take center stage for a much more meaningful reason: helping homeless kittens find a better future.

On Saturday, October 24, A Kitten Place Rescue will host its Sixth Annual Black Cat 5K Fun Run & Walk in the Twin Lakes neighborhood of Valrico.

The family-friendly event combines exercise, community spirit, and Halloween festivities while raising support for cats and kittens in need.

A Morning of Fun for a Good Cause

Participants can choose between an untimed 5K run and a more relaxed one-mile walk around the neighborhood lake.

You don't have to be an experienced runner to participate. The event is designed to welcome families, walkers, casual joggers, and animal lovers who simply want to support a worthwhile cause.

Registration and check-in begin at 7:30 a.m., with both the 5K and one-mile walk starting at 8:15 a.m.

The celebration doesn't end at the finish line.

Organizers have planned music, refreshments, raffles, a silent auction, awards, and a Halloween costume contest for both people and pets.

Registered participants can also receive an event T-shirt, finisher medal, and goodie bag, with some items available while supplies last.

Helping Kittens Who Need a Second Chance

A Kitten Place Rescue works to help homeless cats and kittens, including vulnerable animals that need care before they can find permanent homes.

Fundraising events such as the Black Cat 5K provide an opportunity for residents to support that work while learning more about the needs of rescue animals in the community.

The event also offers a reminder that helping animals doesn't always require adopting a pet. Community support, donated supplies, fundraising, and volunteer involvement all have a role to play.

Bring a Donation and Help Even More

Participants and visitors are encouraged to bring donations of cat litter or cat and kitten toys.

Both clumping and non-clumping litter are accepted.

Those who bring eligible supplies can receive an entry into a special raffle drawing. Winners must be present to claim their prizes.

It's a simple way to provide practical support for rescued animals while enjoying the morning's activities.

Can't Make the Run? There's Another Option

Organizers are also offering a virtual Black Cat 5K for supporters who would prefer to participate on their own schedule.

Virtual participants can complete their activity at a time and place that works for them while supporting the same cause.

For those attending in person, an early packet pickup is scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Fit2Run in Brandon Mall.

A Community Coming Together for Cats

The Black Cat 5K is about more than finishing a race.

It's an opportunity for neighbors to come together, enjoy a festive morning, and support animals that depend on community generosity.

Whether you're running the 5K, strolling around the lake, donating supplies, or cheering on participants, the event offers several ways to make a difference.

And with Halloween just around the corner, there's no better time to show a little extra love to our feline friends.

Event Information

Event: Sixth Annual Black Cat 5K Fun Run & Walk

Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026

Location: Twin Lakes Neighborhood, 3002 Beaver Pond Trail, Valrico, FL 33596

Schedule:

• 7:30 a.m. — Registration and check-in

• 8:15 a.m. — 5K fun run begins

• 8:15 a.m. — One-mile walk begins

Registration: $50 plus a $4 signup fee for the in-person event; $30 plus a $2.80 fee for the virtual option, according to the current registration listing.

Early packet pickup: Wednesday, October 21, 4:30–7:30 p.m., Fit2Run, Brandon Mall, 459 Brandon Town Center Drive.

Donations welcome: Cat litter and cat or kitten toys.

Registration and additional information:

https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Valrico/BlackCat5KWalk