Bubbles and community spirit fill the air at Starting Point’s 5K Bubble Race

A hot, sun-soaked afternoon was filled with bubbles, laughter, and community spirit as 140 registered participants gathered at the Mount Vernon Nazarene University Chapel parking lot to kick off the Starting Point Pregnancy and Family Resource Center’s 5K Bubble Race/Walk fundraiser.

The event, held Oct. 4, was more than just a race — it was a celebration of life, faith, and the incredible work of a local organization that has been serving Knox County for nearly four decades. With bubbles floating through the air, lively music provided by WNZR, and a bounce house adding extra fun for families, the event brought together supporters of all ages.

Starting Point Pregnancy and Family Resource Center has been part of the Mount Vernon community since 1986, providing 39 years of dedicated service. As a faith-based, non-profit medical clinic, Starting Point offers a wide range of completely free services to women and families, without any insurance or income requirements.

Medical services at the center include pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, STI testing and treatment, and options counseling. But support doesn’t stop there — clients also have access to parenting groups, infant loss support, one-on-one counseling, and life skills classes. The center also helps meet practical needs with free resources such as formula, baby clothing, diapers, cribs, and personal care items.

"Being a community of faith for volunteers, staff, and clients — and watching the Lord move lives — has been the most rewarding part of this work," said Executive Director Jennifer Furay.

With just seven employees, the center relies heavily on its devoted team of around 70 volunteers, who help in client meetings, hospitality, and organizing the boutique. From Jan. 1 to Sept. 30 of this year alone, volunteers contributed an impressive 1,778 hours of service — a reflection of the community’s passion and dedication to the center’s mission.

That mission is clear: To offer compassionate, non-judgmental alternatives to abortion by equipping and empowering women with accurate information and real support, so they can make informed decisions. Starting Point is committed to serving every person with dignity, regardless of race, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or citizenship.

As a licensed medical clinic, confidentiality is strictly upheld under HIPAA guidelines, ensuring that all personal information remains private and secure.

Saturday’s Bubble Race was both a fundraiser and a joyful expression of what Starting Point represents: hope, support, and the power of community. Whether participants ran, walked, or simply enjoyed the music and festivities, they were part of something meaningful — supporting families during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

For those who couldn’t attend but want to help, donations can be made by visiting friendsofksp.com. Every dollar raised helps Starting Point continue offering life-changing services to those who need them most.

To learn more about services or volunteer opportunities, visit knoxstartingpoint.com, call (740) 393-0370, or email starthere@knoxstartingpoint.com.

Under the bright afternoon sun, surrounded by bubbles and community joy, the Starting Point 5K Bubble Race was a vivid reminder that compassion and connection can truly make a difference.