SEASIDE HEIGHTS – Running around in red for a good cause on the borough’s boardwalk has become a winter tradition and the first of two Valentine’s Day/Cupid themed events took place earlier this month to raise funds during some pretty chilly weather.
The 17th annual Cupid’s Chase 5K, hosted by Community Options, a national non-profit organization brought together over 11,000 runners on February 8, uniting supporters across 48 race locations nationwide. This year’s event saw an inspiring turnout, reinforcing commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities.
“We are incredibly grateful for the energy and enthusiasm that made this year’s Cupid’s Chase such a success,” remarked Race Director Diane D’Orazio.
“From participants and sponsors to dedicated volunteers, every contribution helped make a meaningful impact,” she added.
Cupid’s Chase 5K is an annual event supporting Community Options, that is committed to providing housing and employment support to individuals with disabilities. The race aims to promote inclusivity and celebrate love, fitness, and community spirit.
Community Options national spokesperson Dana Chiavoni said that across the 48 races, participants showcased their dedication to the cause, running with purpose. “The funds raised during Cupid’s Chase will directly contribute to supporting programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities.”
She noted that “for over 35 years, Community Options has developed housing and employment support for people with disabilities – serving thousands of people from over 50 offices across 12 states. Community Options provides advocacy assistance to empower people with disabilities because all people – regardless of ability level – should live and work in the community with dignity, choice and self-determination.”
Chiavoni added that “Community Options looks forward to building on the success of Cupid’s Chase and continuing its mission to create a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can live a fulfilling life.
She told Jersey Shore Online.com/Micromedia Publications that people should save the date for next year’s race on February 14, 2026, “and join us in making an even greater impact.”
“For more information visit our website: comop.org and to follow us on social media on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
On February 15, the boardwalk also saw some crimson runners in their underwear for the first ever Cupid Undie Run which was an event created to bring further awareness of neurofibromatosis (NF), a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body and fundraises for NF research through the Children’s Tumor Foundation (CTF).
The event took place not only in Seaside Heights but in 33 other communities across the United States.
One of the biggest fundraising events of the month will take place in the borough on February 22 with the return of the annual New Jersey Polar Bear Plunge on the borough’s ocean front that will feature thousands of people entering the frigid surf of the Atlantic Ocean in support the Special Olympics.
Registration starts at 9 a.m. at Blaine Avenue. At 12:30 p.m. plungers will start heading to the beach and you are advised to arrive early as it will be crowded. The plunge itself will begin at 1 p.m. at 315 Boardwalk and many of the participants will be dressed in various costumed themes.
The event is presented by New Jersey Law Enforcement as part of their year-round fundraising of Law Enforcement Torch Run events. Individuals, organizations, and businesses support Special Olympics. New Jersey athletes by jumping into the ocean. It is not too late to register. A $125 minimum donation to plunge is required and for more details, visit plungeseaside.org/
