11-year-old leads fundraising efforts for 17th Annual HoBOOken 5K race
The 6th grader currently leads all individual fundraisers for The Hoboken Shelter’s upcoming HoBOOken 5K.
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Most kids ask for presents on their birthday, but 11-year-old Jacob Cyprys is asking for $12 donations to help fight homelessness in his community.
The Hoboken Dual Language Charter School (HoLa) 6th grader currently leads all individual fundraisers for The Hoboken Shelter’s upcoming HoBOOken 5K, bringing in $1,780 so far. Ahead of his 12th birthday this Sunday, Oct. 11, Jacob is asking community members to contribute $12 to his campaign to support neighbors experiencing hunger and housing instability.
"I have a wish for everyone to have a home of their own, and I want to do my part to achieve that goal as much as possible," Jacob said. "Running this race and raising money for the Hoboken Shelter is one way for me to do that, and I hope it motivates others to do the same."
Jacob’s history with the event began in 2017 when he participated in the Shelter's "Scary Scurry" kids' race at age three. This year marks his first time running the full 5K course alongside his mother, following months of weekend training runs through the city.
"Jacob has such a big heart, and we're incredibly proud of his hard work and determination," said Jaclyn Cherubini, Executive Director of The Hoboken Shelter. "He's a wonderful reminder that kindness has no age limit, and even our youngest neighbors can make a big difference."
The 17th Annual HoBOOken 5K and Scary Scurry Kids' Race takes place Sunday, Oct. 25, at Pier A Park in Hoboken. Community members can register for the race or support Jacob's fundraiser at HoBOOken5K.com.
