Move for Life 2025 Revisited: To All Generations
Smiles and laughter filled the morning at The Junction Center as more than 640 participants either ran the 5K, walked the mile, skated, cycled, or rollerbladed in support of Align Life Ministries. It was a fitting way to celebrate the ministry’s 40th birthday!
Participants and corporate sponsorships raised a preliminary total of $347,443.31 toward the $355,000 goal.
“I am so thankful for Align!” a young mother expressed as she pointed to her sticky toddler happily chomping on a pink cloud of cotton candy. “You helped me when I was pregnant with my daughter, and I know I can always come back if I need your help.”
Align president, Lisa Hosler, welcomed the crowd of 1,400+ people including grandparents, parents, and children. She underscored the theme of “To All Generations” and shared about the founding of Align. Matt Kocher, Executive Vice President, offered a few ministry highlights—including a new larger location in Ephrata with ample room for ultrasounds.
The director of Align’s Lebanon Center, Amanda Aparicio, interviewed Rebecca, a young mom client who was grieving the tragic death of her 3-year-old son when she accompanied her older sister to Align. Rebecca recalled how she felt peace and warmth at Align, so she decided to return.
“Being able to find my strength again and to get closer to God gives me hope that there are more kind people walking amongst us than I realized. I just really appreciate life so much more because of everyone here,” Rebecca stated.
The worship team from Petra Christian Fellowship in New Holland provided the musical backdrop as children of all ages bounced in the inflatables, played games, munched on goodies purchased from the various food trucks, and snuggled baby goats provided by Batz Farm. Attendees also enjoyed free tasty treats in the refreshment tent, which was lined with Move for Life T-shirts from the past several decades.
People enjoyed reminiscing with one another about when they started participating in Move for Life. One preschooler proudly hopped on his miniature bicycle as his mom said, “He’s the third child in our family to ride that bike in this event over the years!”
Another boy started quizzing other kids about our fetal models in the trivia tent. His mother was not surprised at his enthusiasm. “I started running this 5K 10 years ago when I was just 10-weeks pregnant with him!”
Many wrote their reasons for “Why I Move for Life” on a big chalk board. Responses included “donuts,” “family,” “moms and babies,” “healing and hope,” and “Jesus Christ.”
At one point during the mid-morning ceremony, Lisa cued the crowd to wave colorful flags, representing the 581 babies saved from abortion so far through Align. While flags fluttered in the breeze, the band played the classic Rich Mullins song “Awesome God.” The refrain, “He reigns from heaven above with wisdom, power, and love,” aptly describes the Lord’s guidance and provision for Align’s past four decades of ministry, and His presence with us into the future.
Thank you so much to our corporate sponsors and everyone who participated in Move for Life this year! It was so much fun celebrating with so many dear friends who support Align’s mission.
We look forward to seeing you next year, Saturday, May 9, for Move for Life 2026!
Recap Resources
Move for Life 2025 Facebook Photo Album
Move for Life 2025 5K Run Results
Move for Life 2025 List of Corporate Sponsors
Article Written by Leah McKelvey
With a master’s in counseling, a passion for showing families the love of Christ, and a joy of writing, Leah served as an Align volunteer for 10 years before joining staff in April 2025 as Church Relations Associate.