REMEMBERING SUZANNE — Saturday’s annual Suzanne Kresser Memorial 5K Run/Walk at Jim Wood Park in Steubenville saw residents throughout the community gather together to walk, run and remember Kresser, who previously was the executive director of the United Way of Jefferson County. Kresser was involved in several events and activities throughout the county before she died of cancer at the age of 51 in 2021. Among those taking part in the event, at right, were, from left, Marci Crawford, executive director of the United Way of Jefferson County; Taylor Steeves, United Way board member; and Steeves’ husband and son, Shane and Easton Stacey, respectively. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — Streets throughout Jefferson County came alive during the weekend, as runners, walkers and families gathered together for the fifth-annual Suzanne Kresser Memorial 5K Run/Walk at Jim Wood Park.

The event once again proved just how powerful the community can be when it comes together and unites for a specific cause.

What began as a simple race has become a moving tribute to Kresser, as well as a celebration of unity, noted Marci Crawford, executive director of the United Way of Jefferson County, which sponsors the event. From classmates and family members to local businesses and volunteers, Saturday’s turnout was a reflection of the spirit that lies within Jefferson County, Ohio.

“This wasn’t just a 5K,” Crawford said. “It was a community standing shoulder-to-shoulder, showing what it means to “Live United,” which is the United Way’s motto.

“Every drawing ticket, every mile walked, every hand that helped it all, added up to something bigger than ourselves,” she added

The event, made possible through the dedication of sponsors, volunteers and the Toronto High School Class of 1988, from which Kresser graduated, raised necessary support for United Way programs and its 11 partnering agencies.

These programs provide children, families and seniors across Jefferson County with the resources they need to thrive, Crawford explained.

But it was more than simply the dollars raised. You see, the true success of the day was the sense of connection between those involved with the fundraiser.

Neighbors laughed together, friends shared stories of Kresser and everyone committed themselves to carrying her spirit forward.

“This community has a heart like no other,” Crawford concluded. “When we unite, we don’t just honor Suzanne’s legacy, we strengthen the entire county. That’s the power of living united.”

The Suzanne Kresser Memorial 5K Run/Walk was not just a race — it was a reminder that Jefferson County is at its best when it stands together — united for hope, united for change and united for each other.