GRESHAM, Ore. – On April 27 at 8 a.m., the City of Gresham is excited to host the sixth annual Gresham Lilac Run taking place at Main City Park, 219 South Main Avenue, Gresham. The Lilac Run, presented by Unitus Community Credit Union, consists of a five-kilometer, ten-kilometer, and half marathon course, taking participants through the Springwater Corridor, the Saddle Butte, and the Butler Creek Trail. The race also includes the Little Lilac Run for younger athletes. 

“The Lilac Run, which sells out every year, has quickly become one of Gresham’s most beloved events,” said Gresham Interim City Manager Eric Schmidt. “From the cleanup events that led up to the race to the festivities on the day of, it's a wonderful way to come together as a community and celebrate the beauty of Gresham.” 

Because of the event sponsorships, one hundred percent of the race proceeds will go directly to a local non-profit and the 2024 Lilac Run Beneficiary is Shooting Star Adventures. Their mission is to empower the community through outdoor recreational opportunities that cultivate teamwork, instill self-confidence and promote a strong connection to nature. Proceeds from the race will directly support their co-ed day camps in Gresham. 

It is important to remember that the Lilac Run is entirely sponsorship funded and without the generous support of many event sponsors, this event would not be possible. A special thank you to: 

• Presenting sponsor: Unitus Community Credit Union.
• Gold sponsor: Owens Corning Gresham.
• Bronze sponsors: Migration Brewing, Marathon Printing, Inc., Cascade Physical Therapy, State Farm Insurance, and Country Coffee Hitched Up. 
• Aid station sponsors: Eastwind Running and Endurance Club, Metro East Web Academy. 
• Partner sponsors: Rock Haven Climbing Gym, Country Coffee Gresham, and Natural Grocers. 

Registration for the 2025 Gresham Lilac Run will begin in the fall. Please visit GreshamOregon.gov/Lilac-Run for registration updates, beneficiary applications and sponsorship opportunities.  

About Gresham: 

Gresham is a welcoming community of hard-working people where tradition meets opportunity in Oregon's fourth largest city. Gresham’s residents care deeply about our roots and are committed to building a vibrant future. Today, Gresham is a dynamic, innovative, and rapidly growing city with a desire to thrive. To learn more, visit www.GreshamOregon.gov or visit us on Twitter at @CityofGresham. 

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GRESHAM, Ore. - Gresham Mayor Travis Stovall will present Congressman Earl Blumenauer with the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award at the Gresham State of the City event on Tuesday, April 23, from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Gresham Armory, 544 NE Division St., Gresham.

Gresham’s Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates exceptional commitment to public service and significant contributions to community betterment. The award honors dedication, innovation and leadership. Congressman Earl Blumenauer, with over 50 years of continuous service across various levels of government, is the epitome of such dedication. His visionary policies and tireless advocacy have played a pivotal role in enhancing the lives of countless Oregonians and Americans.

“Over his decades of service, Congressman Earl Blumenauer has consistently exemplified a rare blend of vision, effectiveness, and integrity,” said Gresham Mayor Stovall. “His forward-thinking policies have not only shaped Portland, and beyond but have left a lasting impact on communities nationwide. From pioneering curbside recycling to advocating for sustainable transportation, Earl's contributions are not merely legislative milestones; they are the building blocks of a better, more sustainable future. His dedication reminds us all what it means to serve with purpose and passion.”

Preceding the award ceremony, Mayor Stovall will provide a brief “State of the City” recap of Gresham’s success in the areas of economic development, public safety, parks and recreation, and youth violence prevention, as well as the opportunities that lie ahead.

This ticketed event is co-hosted with the Gresham Area Chamber of Commerce. It is sold out; however, members of the news media are welcome to attend.