Jewish Family Service of Tidewater hosted the 21st Annual Run, Roll, or Stroll at the Sandler Family Campus on Sunday, May 4. The event kicked off at 10:30 am in the field behind the Simon Family Jewish Community Center. Despite rainy and uncertain weather, families, teams, and supporters gathered for a morning of fun, connection, and community spirit.
While the skies were gray, the energy was anything but. Children and adults alike embraced the activities, tackling an obstacle course packed with hula hooping, basketball throws, baseball swings, jump ropes, and even axe throwing. One of the highlights of the day was the bubble cannon, which produced a mountain of bubbles and nonstop joy for all ages. “My daughters had an absolute blast—especially in the bubbles and running around with their friends,” says Ken Kievit. “Even with the rain, they didn’t want to leave!”
“This event is always about more than just the run,” says Kelly Burroughs, CEO of JFS. “It’s about celebrating our community, supporting our mission, and showing up for each other—even when the weather doesn’t cooperate.”
This year’s Run, Roll, or Stroll was made possible by the generosity of sponsors, who continue to make a direct impact on the lives of those JFS serves across Hampton Roads.
Leading the way was Ted Kaufman of Davenport & Co. as this year’s Lead Sponsor, joined by long-time supporters Lisa and Mark Delevie as Diamond Sponsors. Gold Sponsors were Ann and Robert Copeland, Robin and Todd Copeland, Renee and John Strelitz, Shari Friedman, Lawrence Steingold, and Lynn and Rachel Schoenbaum.
Community partners also provided generous sponsorship, including Davenport & Co., TowneBank, Merit 2.0, Southern Bank, Beth Sholom Village, Alperin Law, Altmeyer Funeral Home, Cinema Cafe, Changing Tides, Cooper Spong & Davis P.C., Garriott Maurer, PLLC, Payday Payroll, Jody G., and Hercules Fence.
“Each dollar raised, and every show of support helps JFS meet critical needs—whether that’s delivering meals, offering counseling, or providing care and comfort,” says Brooke Rush, JFS director of development. “Events like Run, Roll, or Stroll are a reminder of how generous and strong this community is.”
As JFS celebrates more than two decades of this tradition, the heart of Run, Roll, or Stroll remains unchanged: bringing people together for a cause that matters.
To support the mission of JFS or learn more about how to get involved, visit www.jfshamptonroads.org.
