Hundreds gathered in Medellín, Colombia on Nov. 30 for the third edition of the 5K race “Los Valientes” (The Brave), organized by the Official Fire Department of Medellín, with the Seventh-day Adventist Church supporting the event through its Adventist World Radio (AWR) Colombia station as an official sponsor and logistics partner.

The community race, which attracted between 500 and 600 participants, aimed to promote healthy lifestyles, encourage fire-prevention awareness during the Christmas season, and recognize the daily service of firefighters. AWR Colombia’s participation strengthened cooperation between faith-based organizations and public service institutions, while increasing visibility of Adventist health initiatives in the city, church leaders said.

The firefighters’ station served as both the starting and finishing point of the race, where the AWR team set up a hydration station and shared QR codes that allowed participants to download the station’s mobile app and learn more about its programming.

Strengthening Community Partnerships

According to Robinson Sandoval Palomino, firefighter and member of the organizing committee, the presence of the Adventist radio station supported the broader educational goals of the event.

“It’s important for people to know the radio station and its message of health and hope,” Sandoval said. “These types of events allow us to talk about physical well-being, mental health, and healthy habits.”

Sandoval explained that the race also sought to promote a safer Christmas season by discouraging the use of fireworks, while honoring firefighters who face daily risks in service to the community.

During the event, several attendees expressed appreciation for the church’s involvement. María, the mother of one of the organizing firefighters, said the community’s support is meaningful to first responders.

“Firefighters provide daily service that deserves moral and spiritual support from the community,” she said.

Adventist Presence on and off the Track

Several runners wore institutional shirts featuring the logos of AWR Colombia, Quiero Vivir Sano (I Want to Live Healthy), and Hope Media Colombia, promoting Adventist health and wellness initiatives throughout the race.

Two members of the AWR team provided on-site media coverage, while one runner officially represented the station. Organizers also noted that additional participants independently joined wearing AWR shirts, increasing the station’s visibility among runners and spectators.

Participant Mario Atencia, who ran his first official race representing AWR Colombia, said the event created meaningful interaction with the public.

“Many people greeted us when they saw the institutional shirts,” Atencia said. “This allowed us to promote the radio station and encourage healthy lifestyles at the same time.”

He added that simple activities such as walking, running, and cycling can make a significant difference in overall well-being.

Continuing a Growing Partnership

Although AWR Colombia had participated in firefighter-led activities in 2024, church leaders said this year’s involvement was more significant due to its role in sponsorship, logistics, and full media coverage of the race.

Gabriel Moreno, communication director of the North Colombia Union and who oversees the AWR Colombia team said the invitation came directly from the Fire Department of Medellín.

“They asked us to be there with them because they believe the city should know the content the radio station provides,” Moreno said. “They invited us to be strategic media partners to promote the event and support this initiative.”

Moreno added that the partnership aligns closely with the church’s mission.

“They are also strategic allies for us because they help us build bridges with the community and create spaces for connection, listening, and closeness, where we can share our message,” he said. “Being part of this event reflects our mission to serve and support the community, just as they do. In that sense, we share the same vision of service.”

Adventist Church leaders said participation in events like Los Valientes reflects the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s ongoing commitment to community engagement, health promotion, and collaboration with public service institutions across Colombia.

The original article was published on the Inter-American Division news site.