Registration Is Open for the 2026 Cross for LifeFlight and Family-Fun 5K

The Cross for LifeFlight makes lifesaving missions doable

Augusta, Maine – Registration is now open for the 2026 Cross for LifeFlight, that includes an thrilling new occasion: the inaugural Cross for LifeFlight Family-Fun 5K, happening Saturday, August 15 at Portland’s Back Cove Trail.

LifeFlight of Maine is bringing supporters collectively in particular person for the 5k, which welcomes all ages and skills. Participants are invited to stroll, run, or jog alongside LifeFlight crew members, former sufferers, and different fellow supporters – all whereas elevating important funds to assist LifeFlight’s lifesaving mission.

The Cross for LifeFlight, held all through the month of August, is LifeFlight’s largest annual peer-to-peer fundraiser. While the month-long problem stays a core a part of the occasion, this yr’s addition of the 5k creates a brand new alternative for the group to come back collectively, have a good time, and elevate fundraising efforts in a memorable method.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Cross for LifeFlight Family-Fun 5K as a new part of our month-long challenge,” stated Ashley MacMillan, the Director of Annual Giving. “This event is all about connection – giving people the chance to meet LifeFlight crew, honor the mission, and take part in something active and meaningful. We’ve already received great community support, and we can’t wait to see everyone at the starting line.”

Participants can select to participate within the 5K, the month-long Cross problem, or each. As in years previous, all through August, people and groups will proceed to lift funds by logging miles doing the outside actions they love, together with strolling, biking, paddling, climbing, and swimming.

As a nonprofit, LifeFlight relies on assist from folks throughout Maine. Funds raised in August assist maintain LifeFlight going all yr lengthy, creating entry to important care and medical transport for everybody, in each group in Maine. The Cross for LifeFlight makes this lifesaving mission doable.

Summer is LifeFlight’s busiest time of yr. Last yr in June, July, and August, LifeFlight cared for 877 sufferers — on common, a affected person was transported each 2.5 hours. This summer season, demand for LifeFlight’s companies has been equally excessive, highlighting the significance of group assist.

In 2026, the Cross for LifeFlight goals to lift $200,000 to make sure that LifeFlight crews can proceed to ship superior important care every time and wherever it’s wanted.

Registration for the Cross is $100. Registration for teenagers 12 and underneath is $25. LifeFlight sufferers and their households also can register for $25 with a reduction code. All members obtain a equipment full of Cross for LifeFlight branded gear and a handful of different gadgets to assist them of their adventures. Participants are requested to lift a minimal of $350 in assist of LifeFlight’s mission.

“The Cross for LifeFlight is our most important fundraising event of the year,” stated Kate O’Halloran, Executive Director of The LifeFlight Foundation. “With the addition of the 5K, we’re creating an even more powerful way for people to show their support. Whether you’re joining us at Back Cove or taking part throughout the month, every step helps ensure that the next person facing a life-threatening emergency in Maine has access to the care they need.”

Since 2013, peer-to-peer fundraising occasions, together with the Cross for LifeFlight, have raised greater than $3 million to:

• improve and standardize LifeFlight’s helicopter fleet,
• buy superior medical tools carried onboard,
• fund essential medical schooling and coaching applications throughout the state,
• improve the state’s aviation infrastructure.

To be taught extra about Cross for LifeFlight, please go to https://www.crossforlifeflight.org/.