Run With Purpose at the 2025 Grove Trotter 5K/10K

On Saturday, Oct. 11, the greater Williamsburg community will come together not just for fitness, but for hope. The 5th Annual Grove Trotter 5K/10K Bridge Run, hosted by Grove Christian Outreach Center, invites runners and walkers of all abilities to turn their miles into meaningful support for families facing hardship across greater Williamsburg.

Beginning at Chickahominy Riverfront Park, participants will follow a scenic and fully paved route along the Capital Trail, taking them over the Chickahominy River Bridge and back through the park. Whether you’re pushing for a personal best or simply walking in solidarity, every step taken helps fund essential services—like food assistance, financial aid, clothing, and dignity-driven programs like the Center’s Gathering Place, Williamsburg’s first free grocery market for local families in need.

“The neighbors we serve often have to make impossible choices – between rent and groceries, medication and electricity,” said Katie Patrick, Executive Director of Grove Christian Outreach Center. “No one should have to make those choices. This event isn’t just about running. It’s about showing up for our neighbors where it matters most.”

This year’s Grove Trotter marks a milestone fifth anniversary and is recognized as a Colonial Road Runners Grand Prix event, welcoming both competitive and casual participants. Races begin with packet pick-up at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 10K start at 9 a.m. and the 5K at 9:10 a.m.

Registration is currently $40 for the 5K and $45 for the 10K through August 30. From Sept. 1 through Oct. 10, prices increase to $45 and $50, respectively. Race day registration will be available at $50 for the 5K and $55 for the 10K. All participants will receive a finisher’s medal and commemorative T-shirt, with guaranteed sizing for those registered by Oct. 3. Please note: all entry fees are non-refundable, non-transferable, and the event will be held rain or shine.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Grove Christian Outreach Center has served the greater Williamsburg community, starting in lower James City County, for two decades, offering a wide range of services to help neighbors navigate food insecurity, poverty, and crisis with dignity. Every registration, every dollar raise,d and every mile run makes a difference in the life of someone right here at home.

Sign up today here.

Grove Christian Outreach Center Recognized by Virginia General Assembly for 20 Years of Service to Greater Williamsburg Community

Grove Christian Outreach Center has been formally recognized by the Virginia General Assembly for two decades of dedicated service to individuals and families in need throughout the Greater Williamsburg area.

Senate Resolution No. 241, sponsored by Senator J.D. “Danny” Diggs and agreed to by the Senate on February 13, 2025, commends the organization for its compassionate contributions and evolving impact on the community since its founding in 2004.

Senator Diggs reads Senate Resolution No. 241 alongside Grove leadership.

What began as a modest effort to distribute food and clothing from a single trailer in the Grove area of James City County has grown into a 6,000-square-foot facility offering comprehensive support services. Today, Grove Christian Outreach Center meets a wide variety of needs through food drives, community lunch programs for children, holiday assistance, school supply drives, transportation services and education on healthy living and financial literacy.

In 2024 alone, Grove Christian Outreach Center served 878 unique households through its food pantry, which accounted for 10,400 visits. Altogether, more than 40,700 individuals were impacted by its various outreach programs.

Senator Diggs speaks with Grove Executive Director Katie Patrick inside the food pantry.

The organization’s 20th anniversary year culminated in the opening of The Gathering Place, Williamsburg’s first free grocery market. This innovative initiative allows individuals experiencing food insecurity to shop in a dignified environment, helping reduce stigma while promoting choice and respect.

“This recognition by the Virginia Senate affirms what we’ve always known – that Grove Christian Outreach Center is more than a nonprofit. It’s a beacon of hope for our neighbors facing hardship,” said Executive Director Katie Patrick. “We’re honored by this commendation as it recognizes our mission to serve vulnerable families with God’s grace, while providing resources and hope for a healthier future.”

Senator Diggs greets a Grove volunteer during his visit.

A copy of the resolution was presented to the organization as a symbol of the Senate’s appreciation for Grove’s meaningful and sustained contributions to the community.

“Watching this well-respected organization grow from its humble beginnings 20 years ago to the opening of Williamsburg’s first free grocery market in 2024 has been truly incredible,” said Senator Diggs. “Congratulations to the leadership team, board and volunteers at Grove Christian Outreach Center on a job well done, and for the real difference they are making in the Greater Williamsburg community.”

Full Grove team stands with Senator Diggs celebrating 20 years of service.

Grove Christian Outreach Center invites individuals, businesses, and organizations to join the mission by volunteering, donating or sponsoring its programs, including The Gathering Place.