Walk for Education: Ignite the Night is a family-friendly evening community fundraising experience hosted by UNCF South Florida in partnership with the City of Miami Gardens. Held at Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex, the event brings together students, families, churches, schools, businesses, and community leaders to support scholarships and educational opportunity.

Guests will enjoy live music, student performances, community vendors, sponsor activations, family engagement activities, and an illuminated evening walk symbolizing hope, access, and opportunity for young people throughout South Florida.

ARE YOU READY TO RUN, WALK, FUNDRAISE, AND CHANGE LIVES?

LACE UP for the 18th Annual UNCF Orlando 5K Run/Walk for Education on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Blue Jacket Park!

This year, we’re challenging the Orlando community to help us raise $100,000 to support scholarships, student success programs, and educational opportunities that help students get to and through college.

The UNCF 5K Run/Walk for Education is more than a race—it’s a movement. Every dollar raised helps UNCF provide scholarships, internships, mentoring, and other critical resources that empower the next generation of leaders.

Whether you’re participating as an individual, creating a team with your company, church, school, fraternity, sorority, alumni chapter, employee resource group, family, or friends, your involvement helps create opportunities for deserving students and strengthens our community.

Join runners, walkers, students, educators, corporate partners, and community leaders for a morning filled with energy, purpose, fundraising challenges, team spirit, prizes, vendors, entertainment, and family-friendly fun.

OUR GOAL: $100,000

Every participant has the power to make a difference:

• Register for the 5K Run/Walk
• Start or join a fundraising team
• Invite family, friends, and coworkers to support your efforts

Help us reach our goal and change lives through education

One Community. One Mission. $100,000 for Students.

WHY WE RUN & WALK

For more than 82 years, UNCF has worked to ensure that all students have access to a quality education and the opportunity to achieve their dreams. Funds raised through the Orlando 5K Run/Walk for Education support scholarships, emergency assistance, internships, and student success initiatives that help students thrive in college and beyond.

EVENT DETAILS

Blue Jacket Park

2501 General Rees Avenue

Orlando, FL 32814

Registration & Check-In: 7:00 a.m.

5K Run/Walk Begins: 8:30 a.m.

Awards & Recognition Ceremony: 9:30 a.m.

REGISTER EARLY & SAVE!

$35 through August 31, 2026

$40 through September 30, 2026

$45 through October 31, 2026

$50 through November 13, 2026

$55 Event Day (Onsite Registration)

FUNDRAISE & EARN EXCLUSIVE INCENTIVES

Raise funds and earn exciting UNCF incentive prizes while making a lasting impact on students’ lives. Visit the Incentives Page to view fundraising levels, prizes, and qualification deadlines.

Important: All fundraising dollars must be submitted online by 9:00 a.m. on November 14, 2026, to qualify for incentive prizes, fundraising awards, and event-day recognition.

REGISTER. FUNDRAISE. RUN. WALK. CHANGE LIVES.

Together, we can help more students get to and through college while investing in a brighter future for our community.

#UNCF5K #RunWalkForEducation #InvestInBetterFutures #BecauseCollegeMatters

Facebook: www.facebook.com/uncfncfl

Instagram: www.instagram.com/uncfncfl

Join us for the 2026 UNCF Virginia Faith Leaders’ Breakfast on Saturday, November 14th at Good Shepherd Baptist Church in Petersburg, Virginia. This breakfast will bring together Virginia faith, business, civic and education leaders to support UNCF’s work to create a college-ready culture that provides students with the support they need to get to and through college.

Net proceeds from this fundraising event will support UNCF’s mission: To build a robust and nationally recognized pipeline of underrepresented students, who, because of UNCF support, become highly qualified college graduates and to ensure that our network of member institutions is a respected model of best practices in moving students to and through college.

A Celebration of Education and the Roaring 20s!

Join us for an unforgettable evening of elegance, impact, and purpose at the 12th Annual UNCF Pee Dee Area Mayors’ Masked Ball—the region’s premier fundraising gala and one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year.

Step into a world where timeless glamour meets transformational impact. Inspired by the bold sophistication of the Roaring Twenties, this years’ experience invites guests to embrace iconic style, adorned in elegant attire and signature masks, for a night that is both visually stunning and deeply meaningful.

This extraordinary evening brings together influential civic leaders, corporate partners, community champions, UNCF alumni, and emerging philanthropists—all united by a shared commitment to one powerful mission: investing in education and unlocking opportunity for the next generation.

Now more than ever, our students need us. This is your moment to:

Lead with purpose

Align your brand with impact

Be part of a movement that changes lives

Celebrate with purpose

Give with intention

Sponsor with impact

We invite you—whether you are a long-time supporter or joining us for the first time—to take your place among those who are shaping the future. If you have never participated before, this is your invitation.

The students we serve today will become tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

We proudly welcome corporations, small businesses, faith-based organizations, and individual philanthropists to participate as sponsors of this signature event.

Sponsorship opportunities range from $2,000 to $25,000, offering a meaningful way to engage at a level that aligns with your goals and capacity. Individual tickets are available for $150.

The 43rd Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball is a premier fundraising gala and major social event focusing on raising awareness of the need and benefits of a college education, the students UNCF serves and the contributions of historically Black colleges and universities. Hosted by a diverse group of corporate sponsors, local businesses and professional organizations, the Atlanta UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball is an evening of celebration attended by national celebrities, civic leaders, alumni, dignitaries, volunteers and friends of UNCF. This must-attend event is full of fun, fashion, glitz and glamour, and supports UNCF’s mission of investing in Better Futures® for the young men and women we serve and by helping them move to and through college.

ARE YOU READY TO WALK, RUN, FUNDRAISE, AND CHANGE LIVES?

LACE UP for the 11th Annual UNCF Tampa Bay 5K Run/Walk for Education on Saturday, January 9, 2027, at Perry Harvey Sr. Park!

This year, we’re challenging the Tampa Bay community to help us raise $80,000 to support scholarships, student success programs, and educational opportunities that help students get to and through college.

The UNCF 5K Run/Walk for Education is more than a walk—it’s a movement. Every dollar raised helps UNCF provide scholarships, internships, mentoring, and other critical resources that empower the next generation of leaders.

Whether you’re running/walking as an individual, forming a team with your company, church, school, fraternity, sorority, alumni chapter, employee resource group, family, or friends, your participation helps create opportunities for deserving students.

Together, we’ll celebrate education, community, and the power of giving back while enjoying a morning filled with music, fundraising challenges, team spirit, prizes, vendors, and family-friendly fun.

OUR GOAL: $80,000

Every participant has the power to make a difference:

• Form a team of 10 or more participants
• Raise funds through your personal fundraising page
• Invite friends, family, and coworkers to support your efforts

Help us reach our goal and change lives through education

One Team. One Community. One Mission. $80,000 for Students.

WHY WE WALK: For more than 82 years, UNCF has worked to ensure that all students have access to a quality education and the opportunity to achieve their dreams. The funds raised through the Tampa Bay 5K Run/Walk for Education support scholarships and programs that help students succeed in college and beyond.

EVENT DETAILS: 

Perry Harvey Sr. Park

1000 E Harrison Street

Tampa, FL 33602

Registration & Check-In: 7:00 a.m.

Walk Begins: 8:30 a.m.

Awards Ceremony: 9:30 a.m.

REGISTER EARLY & SAVE!

$35 through August 31, 2026

$40 through September 30, 2026

$45 through October 31, 2026

$50 through November 6, 2026

$55 Event Day (Onsite Registration)

FUNDRAISE & EARN EXCLUSIVE INCENTIVES

Raise funds and earn exciting UNCF incentive prizes while making a lasting impact on students’ lives. Be sure to review the Incentive Page for fundraising levels and prize deadlines.

Important: All fundraising dollars must be submitted online by 9:00 a.m. on November 7, 2026, to qualify for incentive prizes, awards, and recognition.

REGISTER. FUNDRAISE. RUN. WALK. CHANGE LIVES.

Together, we can help more students get to and through college while building a stronger future for the Tampa Bay community and beyond.

#UNCFWalkForEducation #InvestInBetterFutures #BecauseCollegeMatters

For more than 80 years, UNCF, the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization, has worked to ensure students have access to the resources, support, and opportunities needed to succeed in higher education while strengthening the capacity and impact of UNCF-member institutions in their pursuit of educational excellence.

For more than 40 years, the Washington, DC Area Office of UNCF and the Washington Inter-Alumni Council (WIAC) have proudly partnered to present the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration in support of students throughout the Washington Metropolitan Area and UNCF-member institutions across the country.

The 44th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration will take place on Monday, January 18, 2027, at The Hotel at the University of Maryland, located in Prince George’s County. The event is expected to attract more than 300 civic, corporate, education, philanthropic, faith, and community leaders from throughout the region who are committed to advancing educational opportunity, workforce development, and economic mobility.

The UNCF Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration continues to honor Dr. King’s enduring legacy of service, leadership, and social impact by bringing together individuals and organizations dedicated to strengthening communities and expanding pathways to opportunity for future generations.

Observed nationally as a “day on, not a day off,” the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to uplift communities, create meaningful change, and move closer toward Dr. King’s vision of a Beloved Community grounded in equity, opportunity, and service to others.

UNCF’s “A Mind Is…”® Reception is one of UNCF’s premier fundraising and networking events, bringing together influential leaders, changemakers, and supporters for an inspiring evening of celebration and impact. This year’s exciting new location provides a vibrant backdrop for advancing educational opportunity, with proceeds supporting students across the state and strengthening higher education for generations to come. This highly anticipated event will also honor deserving leaders from the Triad area, while raising scholarship funds to benefit deserving students.

**Semi-Formal Attire: Suits & Cocktail Dresses with a twist, guests are encouraged to wear sneakers!

It is with great enthusiasm that we invite you to attend the 17th Annual UNCF San Antonio Leaders’ Luncheon, taking place on Wednesday, February 10, 2027. This inspiring charitable event will be held at the elegant Red Berry Estate, located at 856 Gembler Road, and will begin promptly at 11 a.m.

This year’s luncheon will feature an inspiring and dynamic panel discussion, Women Who Lead, featuring prominent female leaders across sectors, spotlighting leadership, innovation and community impact. We will also celebrate and honor extraordinary women who have made a significant impact locally, statewide and nationally.

The Leaders’ Luncheon provides essential financial support and raises awareness for UNCF’s mission. UNCF plays a transformative role in expanding access to higher education for all students – opening doors to meaningful careers, engaged citizenship and a lifelong commitment to service. Join San Antonio’s corporate, community and civic leaders, along with clergy, alumni, scholars and parents, as we come together to celebrate and invest in the promise of tomorrow’s leaders.

Net proceeds from this event will directly support UNCF’s mission to eliminate financial barriers to higher education for talented students. The 2027 UNCF San Antonio Leaders’ Luncheon will help strengthen our communities by supporting educational opportunities that empower students and uplift futures. Unite with us for a day of empowerment and celebration, all in support of education and opportunity. Sponsorship opportunities are available – reach out to learn more!

Join UNCF Los Angeles for an elegant evening celebrating education, leadership, and opportunity. The annual Masked Ball brings together community leaders, corporate partners, alumni, and supporters to raise scholarship funds that help students get to and through college while investing in the next generation of leaders.

The 5th Jacksonville UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball is a premier fundraising gala and major social event focusing on raising awareness of the need and benefits of a college education, the students UNCF serves and the contributions of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including Jacksonville’s very own Edward Waters University—Florida’s first HBCU and first independent institution of higher education.

Hosted by a diverse group of corporate sponsors, local businesses and professional organizations, the Jacksonville UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball, is an evening of celebration attended by civic leaders, alumni, dignitaries, volunteers and friends of UNCF and EWU. This must-attend event is full of fun, fashion, glitz and glamour, and supports UNCF’s mission of investing in Better Futures® for the young men and women we serve and by helping them move to and through college.

Join us for the UNCF Charlotte Masked Ball, the city’s premier gala and one of the year’s most anticipated social events! Celebrate an unforgettable evening of elegance, impact, and inspiration as community leaders, changemakers, and supporters come together to raise critical funds for deserving students across North Carolina. Together, we’re transforming lives through the power of education.

Attire: Black Tie with a Twist—full-length gowns and tuxedos paired with your favorite sneakers. 👟✨

The Birmingham UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball is the premier philanthropic gala of the year—an unforgettable fusion of purpose, prestige and pure celebration. This dazzling affair shines a spotlight on the life-changing power of a college education, uplifting the students UNCF serves and honoring the enduring legacy and significant economic impact of HBCUs supported by UNCF.

UNCF-member institutions are not only centers of learning. They are economic engines, generating jobs, strengthening local businesses and fueling growth in communities across the nation. Every graduate they produce contributes to a stronger workforce, higher earning potential and long-term economic prosperity. Supporting UNCF doesn’t just change a student’s future; it strengthens the economic future of entire regions.

Hosted by an extraordinary coalition of corporate sponsors, visionary businesses and esteemed professional organizations, the evening gathers national celebrities, civic leaders, dignitaries, alumni and devoted supporters for a night unlike any other. Guests are immersed in a world of glamour, high style, captivating entertainment and show-stopping moments.

More than a gala—this is a movement. Every mask, every dance and every raised paddle fuels UNCF’s mission of investing in Better Futures®, empowering the next generation to not only reach college, but to thrive and graduate with confidence.

The Birmingham UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball:

Where brilliance meets elegance and where your support transforms lives, strengthens communities and drives economic progress for generations.

Join us for the 10th Annual UNCF Hampton Roads Mayors’ Masked Ball! The premier fundraising gala and major social event focuses on raising public awareness and large donations to support deserving students across Virginia.

Bringing together individuals, small businesses, corporate sponsors, celebrities, dignitaries, civic leaders, public officials, and alumni who support UNCF’s mission, the evening encourages every attendee to invest in better futures for all.

**Formal Attire: Black tie (full-length gowns and tuxedos)with a twist, guests are encouraged to wear sneakers!

A Celebration of Education and the Roaring 20s!

Join us for an unforgettable evening of elegance, impact, and purpose at the 9th Annual UNCF Upstate Mayors’ Masked Ball—the region’s premier fundraising gala and one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year.

Step into a world where timeless glamour meets transformational impact. Inspired by the bold sophistication of the Roaring Twenties, this years’ experience invites guests to embrace iconic style, adorned in elegant attire and signature masks, for a night that is both visually stunning and deeply meaningful.

This extraordinary evening brings together influential civic leaders, corporate partners, community champions, UNCF alumni, and emerging philanthropists—all united by a shared commitment to one powerful mission: investing in education and unlocking opportunity for the next generation.

Now more than ever, our students need us. This is your moment to:

Lead with purpose

Align your brand with impact

Be part of a movement that changes lives

Celebrate with purpose

Give with intention

Sponsor with impact

We invite you—whether you are a long-time supporter or joining us for the first time—to take your place among those who are shaping the future. If you have never participated before, this is your invitation.

The students we serve today will become tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

We proudly welcome corporations, small businesses, faith-based organizations, and individual philanthropists to participate as sponsors of this signature event.

Sponsorship opportunities range from $2,500 to $50,000, offering a meaningful way to engage at a level that aligns with your goals and capacity. Individual tickets are available for $175.