Victoria Soto was a passionate teacher who tragically lost her life protecting her Sandy Hook Elementary School students on December 14, 2012. In her honor, the Vicki Soto Memorial Fund, Inc. was created, supported annually by the Vicki Soto 5k. This event occurred through the picturesque Lordship section of Stratford, CT, Vicki’s hometown. This year we are back in Bridgeport, CT!
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Victoria Soto was a dedicated and passionate educator who tragically lost her life protecting her first-grade students at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012. To honor her heroic legacy and unwavering commitment to education, the Vicki Soto Memorial Fund, Inc. was established, with one of its largest sources of support coming from the annual Vicki Soto 5K.
The Vicki Soto 5K is more than just a race—it is a powerful community event that brings together thousands of participants from across the country to celebrate Vicki’s life, support future educators, and promote literacy initiatives. What began as a local tribute in Stratford, CT, has grown into a nationally recognized event, attracting runners, walkers, and supporters of all ages who come together to make a meaningful impact. This year, we proudly returned to Bridgeport, CT, where the overwhelming turnout demonstrated the incredible reach and continued influence of this event.
Since its inception, the Vicki Soto 5K has welcomed thousands of participants, including educators, families, students, and supporters, all rallying around the cause of education. The funds raised have directly supported high school seniors pursuing degrees in education, helping them achieve their dreams of becoming teachers and shaping the future of classrooms across the country.
The impact of this event extends far beyond race day. To date, the Vicki Soto Memorial Fund, Inc. has awarded an astounding $375,000 in educational scholarships to aspiring teachers. Additionally, over $220,000 has been invested in literacy, education, and community enrichment programs, providing students with access to books, classroom resources, and learning opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. Furthermore, $50,000 has been granted to DonorsChoose projects, directly benefiting teachers and students by funding essential classroom needs.
This year, the Vicki Soto 5K saw an incredible 3,200 participants, including over 1,000 teachers—a testament to the event’s deep-rooted impact in the education community. These educators, many of whom run or walk in honor of their own students, embody the same passion and dedication that Vicki brought to her classroom every day.
Beyond the numbers, the Vicki Soto 5K has fostered a strong sense of community, bringing people together in the spirit of kindness, perseverance, and the belief that education has the power to change lives. Participants leave feeling inspired, knowing they have contributed to a cause that will continue to make a difference for years to come.
As we celebrate the 12th year of this incredible event, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported the Vicki Soto 5K—whether by running, walking, volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word. Your dedication ensures that Vicki’s legacy of love, learning, and selflessness lives on, touching the lives of countless students and educators nationwide. Thank you for making this year’s race another unforgettable success!
The Vicki Soto Memorial Fund, Inc has awarded $375,000 in educational scholarships and provided over $220,000 in literacy, education, and community enrichment. $50,000 has also been awarded to DonorsChoose projects.
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