Higher Ground: Building Pathways to Success - OC Marathon | OC Half Marathon & 5k

For more than a decade, Higher Ground Youth & Family Services has played a vital role in supporting families throughout Orange County, CA. Founded in 2013, this nonprofit family resource center was established with the goal of providing wrap-around services, family support, and community resources to youth and families in need. With a deep commitment to empowering underserved communities, Higher Ground works tirelessly to create services that support and uplift families by opening doors for growth and opportunity.

At the heart of Higher Ground’s mission is a dedication to addressing the unique needs of families. By offering a diverse range of impactful programs, such as youth mentorship, family and community development, workforce development, mental health and wellness support, and human trafficking prevention, Higher Ground ensures that individuals have access to the tools, mentorship, and support needed to thrive.

Over the years, Higher Ground has achieved significant milestones in its mission to uplift families and youth, through close collaboration with advisory committees and stakeholders to ensure its programs and services truly meet the community’s needs.

Some of these accomplishments include:

1.3 million hours of youth mentorship
Over $4.5 million worth of free mental health services
23k+ hours of human trafficking prevention workshops
Over 600k meals served
Over $4.3 million in free academic tutoring
Over 6k hours of workforce development trainings

These impressive achievements reflect Higher Ground’s dedication to supporting families and youth, while creating pathways to success.

The organization’s mission is clear: to engage, educate, equip, and empower youth and families in under-resourced communities by expanding purpose and possibilities, fostering resilience, building meaningful connections, and creating foundations for lasting success.

Runner Rebate Program

To make your contribution to Higher Ground even more impactful, we’re pleased to offer the Runner Rebate Program. Runners who commit to fundraising for this charity can receive a full refund of their registration fee by meeting the fundraising goals! Here’s how it works:

For the 5K, raise $150 and receive a 100% refund of your registration fees.
For the half marathon, raise $350 and get a 100% refund of your registration fees.
For the full marathon, raise $500 and you’ll receive a 100% refund of your registration fees.
For the 5K/Half Combo Crush, raise $650 and receive a 100% refund of your registration fees.
For the 5K/Full Combo Crush, raise $750 and receive a 100% refund of your registration fees.

By reaching these fundraising goals, you’ll get to run for free, while also making a meaningful impact on youth and their families through Higher Ground’s work.

Be part of something special by supporting Higher Ground and their mission to educate and empower individuals in under-resourced communities. To donate or fundraise for Higher Ground, please click the link below: