Presented by Nike, Alaska Airlines & Raimore Construction
September 20–21, 2025
Portland Community College – Cascade Campus
Register now: www.MLKDreamRun.org

The Soul District Business Association (SDBA) proudly announces the return of the MLK Dream Run Weekend Celebration, happening September 20–21, 2025, at PCC Cascade Campus in Portland’s historic Soul District.

This year marks the 14th anniversary of this powerful tradition—where running meets purpose, and movement becomes momentum.

Run, Donate, or Volunteer 

• MLK Dream Run September 20 and 21st 2025 –  Our Goal 1500 Participants 
• The countdown begins, Don’t Miss Out – Prices Go Up!
• Register Early and Save.
• Race fees increases as the event gets closer.
• 5k, 10k, 15k September 21st – Sign up (Run with: Family or Friends)
• Free Kids Race September 20th 

This Year’s Theme: “Strengthening Our Communities”

Inspired by Dr. King’s words—

“We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality…”
—this year’s theme reminds us that what we build together, we strengthen together. The MLK Dream Run does more than honor history—it fuels local economic empowerment, amplifies BIPOC-owned businesses, and invests in the next generation of leaders.

Why We Run?

“Strengthening our communities isn’t just a theme—it’s a mandate,” says John Washington, Executive Director of the Soul District Business Association.
“We’re not running for medals. We’re running to reclaim what was taken. To invest where others divested. To remind Portland, and ourselves, that our neighborhoods still matter, our businesses still matter, and our people still matter. This is about legacy, justice, and the power of showing up for each other.”

For over a decade, the MLK Dream Run has helped fuel economic equity through programs that provide technical assistance, financing, and mentorship to BIPOC-owned small businesses and youth entrepreneurs.

 Why Sign Up?

• USATF-sanctioned 5K, 10K, and 15K races
• Prizes including round-trip airfare from Alaska Airlines for the overall fastest winner and random participants Male/ Female each from 5k, 10k,15k 
• Live Music & Entertainment – Games, Give aways, and family fun throughout the day.
• Nike Swag bags, Win a number of raffle prizes donated by local business owners, T-shirts, music, food, kids’ activities, health screenings, and more
• A weekend of unity, celebration, and impact you’ll never forget

Reminder Once Again: “We’re not just running for medals—we’re running for justice, for equity, for legacy,” says John Washington, Executive Director of SDBA.

Whether you run, walk, cheer, or sponsor, your presence strengthens the community.