El Monte residents will gather September 20 for the Johan Memo 5K Run, a fundraiser honoring Johan Memo Rosales and supporting the Johan Memo Scholarship Fund. The Johan Memo 5K Run raises money for scholarships awarded to Monte Vista High School students who demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity. Participants of all ages can register for $30 per person or $22 for students. Check‐in begins at 8 a.m. at Mountain View High School, 2900 Parkway Drive, with the race starting at 9 a.m. Proceeds will fund awards in Johan’s name, established in 2024 after his 15-month battle with childhood cancer.
Benefits of Johan Memo 5K Run
The Johan Memo 5K Run offers both health and social benefits. Runners and walkers improve cardiovascular fitness while enjoying a course laid out on campus grounds. Students and families connect with neighbors, building ties that extend beyond the finish line. All participants receive an event T-shirt, and minors must submit a signed waiver from a parent or guardian. By promoting physical activity, the event advances community wellness and raises awareness for childhood cancer during September’s Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Positive Impact of Scholarship Run
Funds generated by the run directly support scholarships for MVHS students who have overcome personal challenges. Awardees receive financial assistance that can cover books, supplies or tuition at community college or vocational programs. The program underscores local commitment to academic success and personal growth. Sponsors and volunteers benefit from high visibility at aid stations and mile markers, while local businesses gain foot traffic on race day. The scholarship fund also enhances the school’s ability to recognize student achievement and fortitude.
Community Engagement and Support
Public support has been strong since the scholarship’s inception. Organizers encourage everyone to register via the QR code on the event flyer or by visiting the district website at https://www.emuhsd.org/home-11. Donations are welcome for those unable to run. Volunteers can sign up through the Mountain View High School site at https://mviewhs.emuhsd.org. Local civic groups, parent organizations and sports teams often form relay teams, contributing to a festive atmosphere that boosts school morale and community pride.
Future Growth and Legacy
Looking ahead, a strong turnout and community enthusiasm will allow the Johan Memo 5K Run & Walk to expand in future years. Plans under consideration should include adding a one-mile fun walk for younger children and families, maybe a post-race health fair featuring local wellness providers, or themed relay divisions to involve civic groups and sports teams. Each new addition would mark a milestone of success, demonstrating growing support for the scholarship fund and deepening the event’s role as a celebration of resilience and community unity.
Closing with Community Relevance
By combining fitness, fellowship and fundraising, the Johan Memo 5K Run exemplifies how a single event can strengthen community bonds and change lives. Local students benefit from scholarships that reward perseverance, and participants gain a sense of shared purpose. Residents are invited to join this effort to celebrate Johan Memo Rosales’s memory and to invest in the future of Monte Vista High School students.
