Celebrating 10 Years of Jane’s Warriors 5K

It’s been a decade since Orland Park first came together to honor Jane Caliendo with the Jane’s Warriors 5K Run & Walk. Now, as we approach the 10th and final race, the community reflects on the impact the event has had—not just as a race, but as a cherished tradition and a powerful reminder of the strength and love that binds Orland Park together.

“It’s hard to believe it’s been 10 years,” said Jennifer Farley, Race Director for the Jane’s Warriors 5K. “We started this to celebrate Jane’s life, and it quickly became something so much bigger than any of us could have imagined. The community has been amazing—families, athletes, students, teachers, coaches, and friends have rallied behind this event year after year.”

Over the past decade, the Jane Caliendo Memorial Foundation has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to Sandburg students, helping them pursue both academic and athletic careers and a little over $100,000 in donations to various sports teams, including a new timing system for Sandburg High School's Pool. “We’re incredibly proud of the scholarships we’ve been able to give,” said Jim Caliendo. “It’s been an honor to watch these young people grow and succeed, knowing that Jane’s legacy has had a hand in supporting their dreams.”

The Jane Caliendo Memorial Foundation will once again pledge part of the net proceeds to the University of Chicago Medicine's colon cancer clinical research performed by Dr. Blase Polite. Dr. Polite treated Jane through her illness and the Jane Caliendo Memorial Foundation, in appreciation for all that Dr. Polite did for Jane, would like to support his innovative research in his battle against colon cancer.

The race wouldn’t have been possible without the continued support of local sponsors. Farley emphasized the importance of these partnerships over the years. “We’ve had so many wonderful sponsors who have stuck with us through it all. Without them, we couldn’t have made it this far. It’s been a true community effort.”

The last 10 years have seen their fair share of challenges. From unpredictable weather to the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jane’s Warriors persevered through it all. “We’ve been through a lot—storms, freezing temps, even a global pandemic—but we never gave up,” said Farley. “We adapted, we kept going, and look where we are now. It’s a testament to the heart and resilience of Orland Park.”

The final race will take place on Sunday, September 8, and Farley hopes it will be the most memorable one yet. “We want everyone to come out and enjoy the day—whether you’re running, walking, or just cheering people on. It’s a chance to come together one last time, to celebrate."

As the event approaches this Sunday, Farley offers her deepest gratitude to all who have been involved over the years. “This race has always been about love, laughter, and community. We’ve shared so many memories and we couldn’t have done it without our Sandburg and Orland Park community.”

To register for the final Jane’s Warriors 5K, visit: bit.ly/Janeswarriors10years

The community is also encouraged to come out the 153rd St. Metra Lot in Orland Park on Sunday beginning at 7 a.m. Onsite registration will be available.

The Jane Caliendo Memorial Foundation is a non-for-profit foundation which strives to provide resources to Carl Sandburg students and surrounding community so that more warriors with the Jane Caliendo spirit, pride and purpose can be fostered through high school and given the skills, resiliency and pride to make a difference in our community as adults.