Our Mission
To honor the lives of Jared and Jayne Coones
To create an event that celebrates family and community
To raise funds for research and organizations that support cancer patients and their families
A Message From Tom Coones
Our mission is to honor the lives of Jared and Jayne. Jared was ten years old when he passed away after a lengthy, courageous battle with leukemia in 1998. My wife, Jayne was reunited with Jared in Heaven in 2006 after a difficult battle with breast cancer. We come together to honor their lives.
October 14, 2023, marks an incredible milestone for the Pumpkin Run. This year’s event will be our 25th year and our theme for this year is STRONGER TOGETHER. I am very humbled and appreciative for everyone that has played a part in our success over the years. It starts with the volunteer based executive planning committee. Many members of this team have been involved since the first year. It continues with the hundreds of volunteers that have dedicated their time, talents, and treasures to ensure a successful and safe event. It happens because of the incredible support of Black Bob School hosting the Pumpkin Run, and extends to all the Olathe elementary, middle and high schools for their students, staff and families getting involved. The school running clubs have been a huge part of our ability to sustain this event for 25 years.
It doesn’t end there. Thanks to the Olathe Police and Fire departments for providing a safe environment for all participants. It includes a special thank you to the homeowners on the course route for welcoming us into their neighborhood. Let’s not forget our incredible sponsors who help us with financial donations, in kind donations, and continue to generously support our efforts year after year. Thank you for everyone that has signed up to walk or run the event. Over 50,000 people have crossed the finish line & we are working hard to reach a million dollars donated to charities in Jared & Jayne’s name. In reflecting on the past 25 years, it’s very clear that it has taken an entire community to grow and keep the Pumpkin Run strong.
I appreciate you being on this journey with me and my family. So, cheers to the next 25 years!!
Sincerely, Tom
