By Leslie Fuentes
Public Communications
On Saturday, March 22, the Lake Houston Family YMCA and the Rotary Club of Lake Houston hosted the annual BridgeFest 2025, bringing together hundreds of community members for a day of fitness, family fun, and giving back.
A highlight of the event was the Top 3 Schools Challenge, which encouraged Humble ISD campuses to compete for the highest percentage of registered participants.
The winning schools—River Pines Elementary, Whispering Pines Elementary, and Willow Creek Elementary—each received a $500 donation from the YMCA to support their physical education programs.
“BridgeFest is an opportunity for students, staff, and the community to stay active, build partnerships, and develop lifelong fitness habits,” Humble ISD Coordinator of Physical Education and Wellness Helen Wagner said. “The excitement leading up to the event created momentum that will carry forward into our PE initiatives.”
This year’s event featured a timed 5K run/walk, a free 1-mile fun run for kids and adaptive-friendly participants, a family festival, and a vendor fair showcasing local organizations.
Among the participating vendors were the Humble ISD Education Foundation, Humble Area Assistance Ministries (HAAM), the Rotary Club of Lake Houston, HCA Houston Healthcare, and more.
The event kicked off with 200 participants completing the 1-mile fun run, followed by an impressive 700 runners and walkers taking part in the competitive 5K.
“We appreciate everyone who made this event possible—from our sponsors and volunteers to each participant who laced up their running shoes,” Executive Director of the Lake Houston Family YMCA Jessica Penney said. “From the competitive 5K finishers to those who joined the fun run, it was inspiring to see the community come together in the spirit of fitness and giving.”
BridgeFest was originally created to celebrate the opening of the Lake Houston Parkway Bridge, BridgeFest has grown into a beloved tradition in the Lake Houston area, promoting health, wellness, and community spirit.
Proceeds from BridgeFest will directly support local initiatives through the Lake Houston Family YMCA and the Rotary Club of Lake Houston.