Montclair Neighbors Raise Over $25K for Student/Partner Alliance at Annual Fun Run

December, 2025 — A cherished Montclair tradition continued this year as local residents Bruce and Susan Reitz gathered with their community for the annual "Bunk’s Fun Run/Walk", raising more than $25,000 to benefit the Student/Partner Alliance (S/PA), based in Summit, New Jersey.

The 2025 event drew 65 donors and more than 35 attendees from New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey, highlighting the wide reach of what began as a small neighborhood fundraiser more than four decades ago.

Founded in 1983, the Fun Run has supported a variety of charitable causes over the years. In 2000, Student/Partner Alliance became the charity of choice, and since then, the event has generated approximately $265,000 in total donations to support S/PA. Their mission is to support motivated high school students at private high schools in New Jersey’s urban areas of Essex, Hudson, and Union counties with tuition assistance and mentoring to increase their chances for college admission and scholarships.

This year’s run enjoyed favorable weather, allowing participants to take to the streets of Montclair for the traditional route. Participants and supporters then gathered to enjoy a generous homemade spread, with Susan Reitz serving as the primary cook. The menu included bagels and lox, breakfast casseroles, and Christmas cookies.

Organizers credited the continued success of the event to the dedication of longtime hosts, volunteers, and donors who return year after year to support the cause.

The next 43rd Bunk’s Fun Run/Walk is scheduled for Sunday, December 6, 2026.

Those interested in supporting Student/Partner Alliance can learn more or make a donation by visiting the organization’s website at StudentPartnerAlliance.org.