Forging Families Run Returns to Columbiana for Seventh Year to Support Adoption Efforts

Mark White | The Mark White Show

COLUMBIANA, Ala. — The seventh annual Forging Families 5K, 10K, and One Mile Fun Run will take place January 10th in Columbiana, continuing a community tradition that has helped raise tens of thousands of dollars to support families pursuing adoption.

The event was founded by Columbiana resident Joel Dixon after watching close friends, Lawrence and Jennifer Russell, walk through the adoption process with the help of Sacred Selections, a nonprofit organization that assists families with the financial barriers of adoption. As Dixon and his wife, Amy, witnessed the joy and challenges of adoption firsthand, they became aware of the significant costs families often face.

“Adoption is a calling, but it can also be financially overwhelming,” Dixon said. “We weren’t in a place to adopt ourselves, but we were in a place where we could do something to help.”

Drawing on his experience directing races and his passion for running, Dixon created the Forging Families Run as a way to bring people together around a cause while promoting physical fitness and community involvement. The event includes a certified 5K and 10K course, along with a one-mile fun run designed for children and families.

Since its inception, the Forging Families Run has raised more than $66,000 for Sacred Selections. Dixon said one of the most important aspects of the partnership is transparency. Funds raised for families through Sacred Selections go directly to families, while administrative costs are covered separately through designated donations.

“That was important to me,” Dixon said. “People deserve to know that their support is making a direct impact.”

The race has grown steadily over the years, with participation increasing from just over 100 runners in its first year to more than 200 in recent events. Competitive runners, first-time participants, walkers, families, and community members are all encouraged to take part.

The course winds through downtown Columbiana, passing local schools, neighborhoods, and businesses. The event is supported by local sponsors, volunteers, the Columbiana Police Department, area churches, and school groups, all of whom help ensure a safe and welcoming experience for participants.

This year’s race carries special significance. The family being supported is adopting the brother of a child whose adoption was helped by the very first Forging Families Run, creating what Dixon describes as a “full-circle moment” for the event.

On race day, Dixon often positions himself near the finish line, where he watches runners of all abilities cross, cheered on by volunteers and spectators.

“It’s not really about who finishes first,” Dixon said. “It’s about showing up and being part of something that matters.”

Dixon said he plans to continue organizing the event as long as it remains effective and he is physically able, emphasizing that the run is about more than fitness.

“It’s about community coming together to support families and help children find permanent, loving homes,” he said.

The Forging Families Run will be held January 10th in Columbiana. Those unable to attend in person can still support the effort through donations or the event’s “Sleep In Special,” which allows supporters to contribute from afar.

More information about the race is available at forgingfamilies.run. Additional details about Sacred Selections can be found at sacredselections.org.