In recognition of the practice’s commitment to community wellness, EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region has been honored with the prestigious IMPACT Award from the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina. The award was given in recognition of EmergeOrtho’s unwavering, 15-year sponsorship of the EmergeOrtho 5K, a community-wide event that significantly benefits the Girls on the Run and STRIDE programs.
Sponsored by the YMCA, Girls on the Run and STRIDE are running-focused programs for third-grade through eighth-grade girls and boys that encourage positive emotional, social, mental, spiritual and physical development. Heart & Sole is a Girls on the Run program specifically designed for middle-school girls.
Runners take off at the starting line of the 2024 EmergeOrtho 5k, hosted at the UNCW track.
A Celebration of Achievement and Wellness
Held each year in May, the EmergeOrtho 5K marks the end-of-season celebration for participants of Girls on the Run, Heart & Sole, and STRIDE. Participants come together to celebrate their accomplishments in a fun and festive atmosphere, highlighting the importance of friends, family, and wellness. The public is also invited to participate in the run, providing much-needed funding for scholarships for future participants of the programs.
Longstanding Leadership and Advocacy
EmergeOrtho CEO, Allison Farmer, a long-time advocate for the Girls on the Run and STRIDE programs, attended the awards ceremony along with Jennifer Loper, Director of Marketing for the Coastal Region, Julie Wilson, Physician Liaison with the Coastal Region, and Stephanie Rogers, Controller for the Coastal Region. Their presence underscored EmergeOrtho’s commitment to community wellness and support for these impactful programs.
“EmergeOrtho is deeply honored to receive the Community IMPACT Award from the YMCA,” said Farmer. “It’s a testament to our commitment to enhancing the health and wellbeing of our community. We are always grateful for the opportunity to support programs that foster health, wellness, and personal growth among our youth.” EmergeOrtho’s core values include community, teamwork, compassion, and education.
“Reflecting on my journey as a runner and coach for the YMCA program,” Farmer continued, “I am reminded of the transformative power of sports and physical activity. These experiences align with EmergeOrtho’s dedication to providing exceptional orthopedic care and fostering a healthier, more active community. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact and inspire future generations.”
Gratitude to EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region
The YMCA leadership expressed a heartfelt thank you to EmergeOrtho for being the title sponsor and for their steadfast support over the years. EmergeOrtho’s contributions have been instrumental in ensuring that more than 40% of Girls on the Run and STRIDE participants receive financial assistance, making these programs accessible to all families.
YMCA leaders also emphasized the commitment EmergeOrtho team members show during the EmergeOrtho 5K, with physicians, providers, employees, and their families turning out in support of the event, whether as volunteers or participants each year.
Dr. Todd Rose, Zachary Welch, Dr. Richard Bahner, Dr. Jeremy Hoff, Susan Sobel, and Allison Farmer at the 2024 EmergeOrtho 5k.
A Night of Celebration for the Largest Youth Race in the Region
More than 180 people gathered at the YMCA’s Chairman’s Social on March 27, 2025, where the awards were presented. Those in attendance heard about the incredible impact the YMCA and YWCA have in southeastern North Carolina, reinforcing EmergeOrtho’s long-standing partnership in helping those organizations building a stronger community.
The EmergeOrtho 5K boasts more than 1,500 runners, including those in the programs and in the community at large, making it the largest youth race in the region. This event is a testament to the power of community and the positive impact of promoting health and wellness among our youth.
Join Us at the Next EmergeOrtho 5k
Mark your calendars! The next EmergeOrtho 5K will take place on Saturday, May 17th at the UNCW Track and Field in Wilmington, NC. Whether you want to walk, run, or volunteer, we welcome your participation. For more details and to register, please visit runsignup.com/Race/Info/NC/Wilmington/EmergeOrtho5k.
Join us in celebrating the achievements of our young runners and the incredible support from EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region that makes it all possible!
