LEAGUE CITY — Hundreds gathered at Hometown Heroes Park on Saturday for the annual 5K for Kelsey, a community event honoring the life and legacy of Kelsey Nalepa.

Kelsey was killed in 2017 after being struck by a drunk driver while leaving school. In the years since, her family and supporters have transformed their loss into a growing tradition focused on remembrance, education, and giving back.

What began as a small student-led effort has evolved into a large community event—one that continues to exceed expectations.

“I really feel like our numbers might be the highest ever,” said Kelsey’s father, Marcus Nalepa. “We think it’ll fizzle out, and people just keep showing up.”

This year, organizers awarded 27 scholarships totaling $44,000 to young women in the community. Applicants were evaluated through a structured process that included academics, community service, essays, and even past participation in the 5K.

“It’s grown. It keeps growing,” said Nicole Nalepa, Kelsey’s mother. “We want to keep Kelsey’s memory alive and teach about drinking and driving and the consequences of that.”

The event also serves as a reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the lasting impact it can have on families and communities.

“For us, it destroyed a family,” Nicole Nalepa said. “But this community has come together to help us honor Kelsey and make sure we’re teaching these kids what can happen.”

While the event has become a source of healing and connection, the Nalepa family says this year’s race will be the last—for now.

“It’s truly bittersweet,” Marcus Nalepa said. “We wish we weren’t having this 5K… but the community has gotten behind it.”

After nearly a decade, organizers say they plan to explore new ways to continue fundraising, while keeping the scholarship program going long-term.

“We will keep the scholarship going for a very long time,” Marcus Nalepa said.

Though the run may be coming to an end, Kelsey’s legacy—and the message behind it—will continue to move forward.