The Rochester Community Schools Foundation is bringing back its annual Hometown Hustle 5K and Color Run on Saturday, Sept. 19, with both a timed 5K and a 1-mile option open to runners and walkers of all ages.

Proceeds from the event benefit students across Rochester Community Schools, funding initiatives in academics, arts and athletics. The Foundation, the district's nonprofit fundraising arm, announced the race on its X account on Wednesday, Aug. 12, calling it an all-ages event and urging families to bring everyone out.

Rochester Community Schools' official account amplified the announcement the same day, noting the run "supports RCS students across the district."

How the money reaches schools

The Hometown Hustle doesn't just raise a lump sum. Schools with more participants receive larger checks from the Foundation based on turnout. Last year, Hart Middle School took home a $2,750 check for fielding the most middle school runners, with the money earmarked for school initiatives, according to a Rochester Community Schools Facebook post.

That structure puts a direct incentive on participation. The more students from a building who register, the more funding flows back.

The Foundation's event page dates to 2017, indicating the race has run for several years. Its stated mission is to support and advance learning for all RCS students by obtaining contributions for academics, arts and athletics, according to the Foundation's website.

How to sign up

Registration is open now. Residents can sign up at rcs-foundation.org/hometown-hustle. The Foundation has not yet published the event's specific venue, start time or registration fees on its site.

The color run portion adds a twist for younger participants and families looking for something less competitive than a standard 5K.

Coming up in the community:

• Saturday, Sept. 19 — Hometown Hustle 5K and Color Run, presented by the RCS Foundation. Registration at rcs-foundation.org.