Hold the Fort Races draw community to Oak Mountain to fight child trafficking

Published 5:09 pm Friday, September 26, 2025

By Dave Domescik

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By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

PELHAM – Hundreds of runners, walkers and advocates laced up their shoes at Oak Mountain State Park on Saturday, Sept. 20, for the annual Hold the Fort Races—an event that combined fitness with a mission: to combat child trafficking and support survivors.

Hosted by Blanket Fort Hope, the races featured a 10K, 5K and 1-mile Warrior Walk, with all proceeds benefiting the nonprofit’s soon-to-open long-term Restoration Home for child trafficking survivors. The facility, one of the few of its kind in Alabama, is completely debt-free and designed to provide consistent care, therapy and education support for children in recovery.

“Generosity defined this year’s Hold the Fort races at Oak Mountain State Park, where runners, walkers and volunteers turned out to champion the mission of Blanket Fort Hope,” said Tara Littleton, office administrator with Blanket Fort Hope. “The turnout exceeded our expectations and reminded us that when children need help, our community shows up.”

Alexa James, CEO of Blanket Fort Hope, emphasized the broader meaning behind the event.

“Every child deserves to feel safe,” James said. “By joining the races, you’re not just running. You’re taking a stand for vulnerable children, raising your voice for their protection and becoming part of a movement to bring healing and hope.”

The day carried a particularly urgent tone. Just days earlier, a child trafficking bust in Bibb County made headlines across Alabama, underscoring the ongoing need for awareness and action.

Littleton said one of the most memorable moments came at the finish line, where the energy reflected the heart of the mission.

“What stood out most was the spirit at the finish line,” she said. “From Blanket Fort Hope staff cheering to volunteers handing out water and encouragement, you could feel the joy.”

Hosting the races at Oak Mountain, she added, was significant for both the cause and the community.

“The park’s beautiful trails and lakes create a safe, family-friendly atmosphere, and it sits in the heart of Shelby County, whose support we’re deeply grateful for,” Littleton said.

This year’s event directly funded final preparations for the Restoration Home, which is scheduled to open on Thursday, Nov. 20. With the races complete, the organization will shift toward staff onboarding, volunteer training and readying the home for children.

“Every registration, every sponsorship and every volunteer hour moved us closer to welcoming children into a stable, loving environment,” Littleton said. “To every runner, walker, volunteer and sponsor: thank you. Your steps today become safe steps for a child tomorrow. You didn’t just run a race—you helped build a future.”

For those who couldn’t attend, Littleton noted there are still many ways to get involved—from giving financially and volunteering to partnering with programs, advocating in the community and spreading awareness.

“We hope participants carry the mission beyond race day,” she said. “If they leave with a deeper sense of belonging to this work—believing their voice and presence matter—then this race did more than measure miles; it helped hold the fort.”

More information about Blanket Fort Hope and opportunities to get involved can be found at Blanketforthope.org.

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