BY JYOTHSNA HEGDE/VIDEO REPORT BY NAMITA DOGRA SUDAN
Cumming, GA, October 3, 2025: On the morning of September 14, 2025, The Collection at Forsyth in Cumming, Georgia, transformed into a sea of running shoes, bright athletic gear, and determined faces as close to 1,000 runners and walkers from the community came together for the Dream Mile. Organized by Vibha, this annual fundraiser is more than just a race—it is a community tradition that blends fitness, philanthropy, and celebration.
What began in Atlanta in 1998 as a small local initiative has grown into Vibha’s flagship event across the United States. Over the last 27 years, the Dream Mile has raised more than $3 million, directly impacting the lives of more than 180,000 underprivileged children through education, healthcare, and empowerment programs. Each year, the event also supports local causes, strengthening its ties with the very communities where it is held.
From the early hours of race day, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Volunteers busied themselves with bib distribution, families gathered for pre-race photos, and seasoned runners warmed up with their eyes fixed on the finish line.
With the signal to begin, the crowd surged forward—half marathoners sprinting with determination, 10K and 5K runners finding their pace, and walkers moving with steady enthusiasm. Cheers erupted from the sidelines, where volunteers and local supporters offered encouragement, music, and water to keep spirits high. The course was not only a physical challenge but also a rolling celebration of community unity and shared purpose.
The Dream Mile is designed to welcome everyone—whether an experienced athlete chasing a personal best or a family walking together to support underprivileged children. Distances ranged from the demanding half marathon to the accessible 5K Run and Walk, and even a 1K Walk for those who simply wanted to join in the movement. Finisher medals brought smiles to half marathoners and 10K runners, while age-group awards highlighted excellence across different brackets.
The rules were simple: fairness, inclusivity, and recognition for effort. Awards were determined by official gun time, ensuring that results reflected the race clock. While trophies were limited to one per participant to broaden recognition, the true reward for most participants was being part of something bigger than themselves.
Their achievements were celebrated not just with applause but also with admiration for the countless hours of preparation and discipline that led them to the podium.
As one participant put it, “Crossing the finish line felt amazing, but knowing that my steps are helping children build a better future—that’s what really mattered today.” Another volunteer, smiling as she handed water bottles to finishers, said, “It’s inspiring to see so many people show up for the same cause. The energy here makes all the hard work worthwhile.”
Paramount served as the title sponsor, joined by about 44 other corporate and community sponsors whose commitment ensured the event’s success. Their support underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in driving change and turning a race into a movement for social good.
Equally vital were the hundreds of Vibha volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. From coordinating registrations and managing the course to cheering participants at water stations, their dedication was visible at every step. Their energy and enthusiasm helped create the welcoming atmosphere that has become the hallmark of the Dream Mile.
Vibha’s model ensures that the funds raised create measurable impact, whether through grassroots initiatives in India or local partnerships in the United States. Past beneficiaries have included Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and the International Community School in Decatur, underscoring the event’s dual commitment to both global and local causes.
As the sun set on September 14, the smiles, stories, and camaraderie remained.
Winners Who Inspired
The competitive spirit was alive, and performances on the course demonstrated remarkable dedication. The winners across categories embodied resilience and athleticism, serving as inspiration for all who attended.
Male Masters
Surjit Singh
Sudhakar Ravella
Female Masters
Dvipal Chatrola
Christina John Bosco
Female 40–49
Jilka Patel
Pradnya Nimgaonkar
Female 50–59
Kiran Surapaneni
Savitha Viswanathan
Female 60–69
Anuradha Akkineni
Audrey Dibrell
Female 70–79
Geeta Patel
Bhanumati Bharadwa
Male 40–49
Kunal Desai
Kunal Chatrola
Male 50–59
Goutham Goli
Yaswanth Jonnalagadda
Male 60–69
Rahul Kulkarni
Koththavasal Sundararaghavan
Male 70–79
Arun Jain
Narender Reddy
