The BIG 5-0 Gratitude Run: 5K for Kids Like Me.

Sunday, February 1, 2026
9:30 AM EST

In-Person: Rye Playland Fountain Entrance, Rye, NY
Virtual: Run from anywhere in the world!

This year, I’m turning 50—and instead of throwing a party, I’m running with purpose.

I came to New York from Argentina as a child, not knowing a word of English. I was enrolled at PS 205 near the Bronx Zoo and placed in an ESL classroom, where teachers and aides helped me find my voice, my confidence, and eventually, my dreams.

Now it’s time to give back to the Bronx community that gave me everything, when I needed it the most.

Join me on February 1, 2026, for The BIG 5-0 Gratitude Run: 5K for Kids Like Me—a birthday run to raise funds for Terra Firma, a Bronx-based nonprofit that provides medical care, legal services, and emotional support to immigrant youth and their families.

🏁 And after the run… let’s BRUNCH!
All in-person participants are invited to a PRIVATE BRUNCH at Barley Beach House in Rye, in honor of Karina, the Golden Girl 💛

• In-Person Participant (Rye Playland) – $25 minimum donation, but you can DONATE $50 if you can!
• Virtual Participant – $25 minimum donation, but $50 would be better! :)
• 💛 Want to give more? You can choose to donate additional funds at checkout.

🎯 100% of proceeds go to Terra Firma NYC.

• Dress warm—and wear something GOLD to celebrate this golden birthday!
• Fun-run style (not timed!) — open to all ages and paces.
• Virtual runners: Post with #Big50GratitudeRun and tag @KarinaWyllie
• Training Plan is FREE! See below 2 options for beginners and intermediates
  

Couch to 5K Training Guide with FREE Printable Plan — Runstreet

Novice | Hal Higdon

Terra Firma supports immigrant children with holistic care—offering medical, mental health, and legal services to those most vulnerable, helping them heal, adjust, and thrive in their new home.

This run is for kids just like me. Let’s help them rise. Together.

Mission & Vision | Terra Firma

🎉 After the run, you're invited to a PRIVATE BRUNCH!

Join us at Barley Beach House in Rye to toast to life, friendship, and giving back. Let’s celebrate together—Karina style!

🌍 Virtual Participants:
Run your 5K anytime, anywhere, and post your photos with #Big50GratitudeRun + tag @Iam_KarinaWyllie on Instagram!

All proceeds benefit Terra Firma NYC, a beautiful nonprofit helping immigrant kids thrive in the Bronx—just like I once did.

With so much gratitude,
– Karina

Also check out other Kids events & activities in Rye, Nonprofit events in Rye, Workshops in Rye.