BLOG
The Amway River Bank Run
Every year, leading up to the Amway Riverbank Run, there’s a certain energy and excitement that builds throughout Ada, Grand Rapids and the surrounding communities. Residents, runners, volunteers and viewers prepare for what has become the largest 25K road race in the country – a cherished West Michigan tradition since 1978.
As title sponsor of the event since 2019, Amway is proud to support an event that reflects many of the ideals that guide our company: wellbeing, connection and making a positive impact in the communities where we live and work.
In addition to building community, it contributes an estimated $1.8 million in economic impact to the Grand Rapids area each year. Local businesses and hotels benefit from the increased foot traffic brought in by 10,000+ runners, their supporters and spectators. The event also provides opportunities for select nonprofits to fundraise at the race and engage with the local community. Since 2008, $2.3M has been raised for charity partners through this annual tradition.
Amway is proud to support the Amway River Bank Run because it promotes health, wellness and personal growth, all of which contribute to a thriving community. Whether someone is chasing a personal record, completing their first race, or simply taking a step toward a healthier lifestyle, the Amway River Bank Run celebrates athletes at every stage of their journey and inspires our community to keep moving forward.” Lindsey Tilley, Amway Corporate Citizenship
The Amway River Bank Run is more than a race for many in the Amway community. It’s an opportunity for people to show up for themselves and for each other. Both Amway employees and Independent Business Owners (IBOs) participated in the event, which included race events ranging from 5K to 25K runs and a 25K handcycle/wheelchair race.
For many participants, preparations began long before race day. Members of the Amway Running Club spent months training side by side, motivating one another as they pursued personal fitness goals and celebrating each milestone as shared achievements. Whether completing a first 5K, setting a personal record, or tackling the 25K distance, runners were supporting each other in developing resilience, discipline and confidence. Co-workers and fellow IBOs became training partners, cheerleaders and friends, as they prepared for this beloved annual race.
“Why I love this community: we push each other, keep each other accountable and celebrate every win together. Come join us!” said Fanfan Wainer, an Amway Running Club member.
The River Bank Run is an exciting milestone each year, but the real impact of the Amway Running Club happens throughout the year. Their twice-weekly runs bring together employees of all experience levels to support one another, stay active and build meaningful connections. What started as a shared interest in running has grown into a community that continues to welcome new members and celebrate progress together.
Behind every successful River Bank Run is a dedicated network of volunteers who help make race weekend possible.
This year, 300 Amway volunteers supported the event, contributing their time and energy to ensure a positive experience for participants and spectators alike. Volunteers assisted with water stations, registration, packet pickup, course operations and finish-line support, helping the event run smoothly from start to finish.
Their efforts reflect Amway’s longstanding commitment to service and community involvement. By volunteering, employees and their families play a direct role in supporting one of West Michigan’s most celebrated events. They help foster a welcoming experience for thousands of runners while creating more traditions and lasting memories along the way.
As Amway celebrates another successful race weekend, we are grateful for the employees, IBOs, volunteers, families and community members who make this event so special. Together, they demonstrate that every mile traveled, whether on the course or behind the scenes, helps build a stronger, healthier and more connected community.